The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted that the Southwest Monsoon will likely reach the Andaman & Nicobar Islands around May 20. This year's monsoon is expected to be below average, with rainfall anticipated to be 92% of the long period average (LPA), raising concerns about the production of essential crops like pulses and oilseeds during the kharif season, which begins in June. The kharif season is vital as it accounts for over half of India's food-grain production, and the outcome will significantly impact food inflation. The IMD noted that while many areas may experience below-normal rainfall, regions in Northeast, Northwest, and South Peninsular India could see normal to above-normal precipitation. This variability in rainfall is crucial for farmers as it influences their sowing decisions for major crops such as paddy, cotton, and oilseeds.