The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted that India will experience below-normal rainfall during the southwest monsoon season this year, with expectations of rainfall at about 92% of the long-period average (LPA). This forecast raises significant concerns for farmers, as monsoon rains are vital for the country's agricultural economy, providing over 75% of annual rainfall from June to September. The IMD's seasonal rainfall classification indicates that a range between 90-95% of LPA is considered below normal. M Ravichandran, Secretary of the Ministry of Earth Sciences, noted that while the initial months of June and July may not see significant impacts, the latter half of the season is concerning due to the anticipated peak of El Nino, which is associated with deficient rainfall and drought conditions. Currently, weak La Nina conditions are present, expected to transition to neutral before El Nino emerges in July. The IMD plans to issue a more detailed forecast in May, including the onset date of the monsoon.