India Records 68.9% Below-Average Rainfall in December, IMD Warns of Impact

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has confirmed that December 2025 was one of the driest months in recent history, with rainfall across the country falling nearly 70% below normal. This anomaly is expected to affect agriculture, groundwater recharge, and urban water supply planning.

Key Highlights:

• National Deficit: Rainfall was 68.9% below average across India.
• Regional Breakdown:
• Central India: Most affected, with a 99% decline.
• Northwest India: Recorded 84.8% less rainfall.
• East & Northeast India: Faced a 95.2% shortfall.
• Agricultural Impact: Reduced soil moisture may hinder rabi crop sowing and yields.
• Water Concerns: Lower rainfall could strain reservoir levels and urban water supply.
• Climate Context: Experts attribute the anomaly to weakened western disturbances and shifting weather systems.

The IMD has urged policymakers and farmers to closely monitor water resources and adapt agricultural strategies to mitigate the impact of this rainfall deficit.

Sources: India Meteorological Department (IMD), The Economic Times