INDIA MONSOON
El Niño is here, but can the Indian Ocean Dipole save India's monsoon?
El Niño conditions have developed in the Pacific Ocean. This weather pattern often leads to less rain and hotter temperatures in India. Farmers and water resources could be affected. However, another climate pattern, the Indian Ocean Dipole, might help. A positive Indian Ocean Dipole could bring more rain. Experts are watching both closely to predict the monsoon's outcome.
Inflation seen at 5% in FY27, 50-75 bps rate hikes likely as food and fuel risks build: Report
Inflation is set to climb to 5.0 percent in FY27. Upside risks persist due to the West Asia conflict and a potential below-normal monsoon. ICICI Bank Global Markets anticipates policy rate hikes of 50-75 basis points. Food inflation is accelerating, with vegetables seeing a significant jump. Core inflation is also firming up. Energy prices are rising with global crude.
Default clouds hover over microfinance as industry flags weak monsoon
In the evolving world of India's microfinance sector, fresh credit risks are emerging on the horizon. The dual challenges of an unsteady monsoon and geopolitical tensions in West Asia could significantly affect the livelihoods of rural populations. Despite a recent upturn in asset quality, these external threats raise serious concerns for sustained growth.
What is El Niño and how does it affect India? Could it bring a drought-like monsoon and higher grocery bills?
El Niño conditions are now active in the equatorial Pacific Ocean, raising concerns for India's monsoon. Warmer Pacific waters disrupt weather patterns, potentially leading to weaker rains, hotter temperatures, and agricultural stress. This could impact crop production, water availability, and ultimately, food prices, affecting household budgets across the nation.
Risks cloud hover over microfinance
The Reserve Bank of India, too, raised concerns over higher inflation due to low average rainfall and supply chain disruptions due to geopolitical conflicts. The microfinance market, meanwhile, turned the corner with the fourth quarter showing Rs 77,524 crore in loan disbursement, the highest in the last eight quarters. The sector's asset quality stress also subsided with the share of the portfolio which remained unpaid for 31 to 180 days being at 2%, as of end-March, compared with 6.3% a year ago.
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El Nino sets in, clouds kharif outlook
El Nino conditions have set in and may strengthen during the southwest monsoon, raising concerns for India's largest sowing window. The neutral Indian Ocean Dipole offers no offset, and the IMD has lowered its monsoon forecast to below-normal. This development threatens crop output, impacting inflation and the rural economy.
Southwest monsoon arrives in Odisha, covers parts of northern region
The southwest monsoon has arrived in Odisha, covering northern regions. Conditions are favorable for its further advance across the state in the coming days. Rainfall with thunderstorms and gusty winds is expected in several districts on Saturday. Heavy rain is predicted for southern districts, prompting an orange warning. Other districts are under a yellow warning.
El Nino returns to Pacific, likely to intensify through monsoon season, says IMD
El Nino has returned to the tropical Pacific. The India Meteorological Department warns it may intensify during the southwest monsoon. The government has identified 197 vulnerable districts. Contingency plans are being prepared for agriculture. The nation is stocking seeds and inputs. Farmer outreach programs are underway. This heightened preparedness addresses potential monsoon disruptions.
India's retail inflation quickens to 3.93% in May amid high food & fuel prices
India's retail inflation rose to 3.93% in May. Food and fuel prices increased, impacting consumer costs. This marks the highest inflation reading under the new CPI series. Despite the rise, inflation stays below the Reserve Bank of India's 4% target for the 16th month. Policymakers have room to support growth.
Monsoon weather updates: Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Kerala, Bihar likely to see heavy rain, thunderstorms and strong winds on June 11-12. Check IMD's forecast for other states
Monsoon 2026: India is set for a significant weather shift as rain-bearing systems become active across the country on June 11 and 12. Expect rainfall, thunderstorms, strong winds, and dust storms, bringing a noticeable drop in temperatures to North, East, Central, and South India. Several regions, including Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, and Kerala, are bracing for intense weather activity.
Western disturbances slow monsoon, below-normal rain likely in central, north India
India faces below-average rainfall for the next two weeks. Western disturbances are delaying the monsoon's progress, particularly in central and northern regions. This could impact summer crop planting. However, the monsoon is expected to gain momentum by the end of June, bringing ample rain to most states. Southern regions are anticipated to receive good rainfall.
Delhi, Noida, Gurgaon weather update: IMD warns of heavy rain, thunderstorms and 70 kmph winds but no real relief from heat
Delhi, Noida, Gurugram weather: Delhi-NCR braces for turbulent weather with an orange alert issued for Thursday. Thunderstorms, lightning, and strong winds are forecast across the region. While rain may offer brief respite from heat, high humidity will persist. Temperatures are expected to drop by Friday. The monsoon is anticipated by late June. Other states will also experience similar weather.
Govt identifies 197 districts most vulnerable to El Nino impact, prepares contingency plan
India's Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan announced 197 districts are vulnerable to El Nino. The government has prepared state-wise contingency plans. A nationwide awareness campaign for farmers is underway. Weekly meetings assess the El Nino phenomenon. Agricultural inputs like seeds are stockpiled. The southwest monsoon is advancing, but a below-normal season is forecast.
Dil ka Chor: Anand Mahindra decodes the name of the smell after rain, says Indians may have a better term for it
The distinct scent of soil after rain, known as petrichor, sparked a lively online discussion after Anand Mahindra explored its Greek origins. While scientifically defined, many Indians find the aroma deeply emotional, with Mahindra humorously suggesting 'Dil ka Chor' as a more fitting name. The conversation celebrated the monsoon's nostalgic essence.
IMD issues orange alert in 2 districts; predicts thunderstorms, strong winds across Kerala
The IMD has issued an orange alert for Alappuzha and Ernakulam districts. Thunderstorms with moderate rainfall and strong winds are predicted for several Kerala districts. This follows heavy rains and strong winds on Tuesday. Authorities urge vigilance in vulnerable areas due to ongoing monsoon activity. Residents are advised to stay alert.
India monsoon update: Delhi weather to change soon; rain likely across Kerala, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan. Check latest IMD forecast
Delhi and North India are set to receive significant relief from scorching heat with forecasts of rain, thunderstorms, and strong winds. Pre-monsoon activity and a Western Disturbance are expected to bring down temperatures sharply, potentially below 40°C, and ease heatwave conditions. Residents are advised to exercise caution during the stormy weather.
Monsoon advances into Bengal, Sikkim; set to cover more of Andhra, Telangana, Karnataka, Maharashtra this week
The southwest monsoon is progressing steadily across India. It has now covered Sikkim and parts of Northeast India. The India Meteorological Department forecasts further advancement into southern, central, and eastern regions over the next four to five days. This expected rainfall will bring relief to many areas and support the crucial kharif sowing season for farmers.
El Niño clouds loom over kharif crops, farm pay
A developing El Niño event thousands of miles away poses a significant threat to India's agriculture. This weather phenomenon is linked to weaker monsoon rains and higher temperatures. Experts predict a potential decline in kharif crop production, impacting oilseeds and pulses. This could lead to rising inflation and reduced earnings for farmers across the country.
Monsoon likely to enter north Bengal in three-four days: IMD
The southwest monsoon is expected to reach West Bengal's sub-Himalayan regions in three to four days. Northern districts are already experiencing pre-monsoon showers. Heavy rainfall is predicted for Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Jalpaiguri, Alipurduar, and Cooch Behar over the next two days. Southern districts will see light to moderate rain. Alipurduar recorded the highest rainfall in the last 24 hours.
Inflation poses bigger risk than growth this fiscal as monsoon and crude weigh on rural demand: Nuvama
In FY27, India's economy grapples with inflation that hits hardest in rural regions, where rising food prices become an urgent concern. The eyes of policymakers are fixed on the monsoon's trajectory, a key determinant for crop health. Global factors, such as elevated crude oil prices and geopolitical strife, further exacerbate inflationary trends.
Heat, humidity of India's monsoon could extend summer heat stress as climate warms: Recent Study
India faces a growing threat of extreme heat stress. A recent study reveals that with a 2-degree Celsius global warming, the monsoon season could experience significant uncompensable heat stress. This prolonged heat poses critical challenges to public health and labor productivity across the country. Regions like the Indo-Gangetic plain and coastal areas are particularly vulnerable.
Monsoon 2026: When will rain reach Delhi? Check IMD forecast amid delayed start in Kerala
Delhi monsoon: The southwest monsoon has arrived in Kerala, and attention is now on its journey north. The India Meteorological Department expects the monsoon to reach Delhi around the last week of June. This year's monsoon is being closely watched due to a slight delay in its onset. Until then, Delhi will experience hot and humid conditions with chances of thunderstorms.
Monsoon 2026: Kerala, Karnataka, Goa brace for heavy rainfall as IMD issues weather warning
Kerala monsoon update: The southwest monsoon is advancing across India, bringing much-needed rain to many regions. Coastal Karnataka, Kerala, Goa, and Maharashtra will see persistent rainfall. Northeast India forecasts widespread precipitation. Hill stations will experience cooler weather. However, heatwave conditions continue in parts of Andhra Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh. Travellers should stay informed about weather updates.
El Nino sets in as Pacific crosses critical 0.5°C threshold: What it could mean for India's monsoon this year
El Nino: A major global weather signal, El Niño, has officially begun and the sea surface temperatures in the tropical Pacific have crossed a critical threshold. This development could significantly impact India's southwest monsoon. The India Meteorological Department has already forecast below-normal rainfall for the season. Scientists are closely monitoring the situation for further developments.
RBI MPC Meeting 2026: Sanjay Malhotra & co warn weak monsoon could stir food inflation despite price stability
RBI monetary policy meeting: India's monsoon season is critical for farms and prices. A weak monsoon could impact crop yields and raise food costs. The Reserve Bank of India is watching weather closely. Inflation has already risen slightly. Experts warn of price pressures from rain, energy, and currency. Monsoon outcomes will shape India's economic path.
Southwest monsoon arrives in Kerala, marks start of India's rainy season
The southwest monsoon has arrived in Kerala. This marks the beginning of India's crucial four-month rainy season. However, forecasts indicate below-normal rainfall for the 2026 season. El Niño conditions may also emerge, impacting water supplies and agriculture. This situation raises concerns for crop output and rural demand across the nation.
Kerala Monsoon Delay Reason: Why is the Southwest Monsoon late? What IMD is forecasting
India's southwest monsoon is delayed, with official onset expected after June 5-6. While Kerala has seen some rain, the India Meteorological Department awaits widespread rainfall, strong westerly winds, and specific cloud activity to declare the monsoon's arrival. This crucial weather event underpins India's economy and agriculture.
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