PARLIAMENT QUESTION: RAINFALL DEFICIT - 22nd July 2026 - Ministry of Earth Sciences - Gazette Notification PDF

Executive Summary This report details the status of the 2026 Southwest Monsoon, which recorded a 21% rainfall deficit below the Long Period Average as of July 14, 2026. It outlines the monitoring role of the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the jurisdictional responsibilities of State and Central ministries in managing rainfall variability. While localized deficits exist, the document confirms there is currently no nationwide impact on food grain production and highlights the "Mission Mausam" initiative to improve forecasting.

Key Points / Main Content

• Current Rainfall Status (as of July 14, 2026)

  • National rainfall is 21% below the Long Period Average (LPA).
  • Rainfall distribution is characterized by high spatial and temporal variability, with some regions recording deficits while others experience normal or excess rainfall.
  • Initial weeks of the 2026 season showed lower than normal rainfall in several parts of the country.

• Monitoring and Impact Assessment

  • The IMD monitors rainfall on daily, weekly, and seasonal scales.
  • Impact assessments regarding agriculture, drinking water, and groundwater are conducted by concerned Ministries and State Governments.
  • Current data indicates no nationwide threat to food grain production.

• Administrative Responsibilities

  • State Governments hold the authority to assess and declare drought or flood situations.
  • Declaration of such situations is done in coordination with the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare and the Ministry of Home Affairs.
  • The IMD provides forecasts and warnings to assist authorities in implementing operational measures.

• Mission Mausam Initiative

  • A flagship programme under the Ministry of Earth Sciences designed to strengthen weather forecasting.
  • Focuses on improving weather observations and gaining a better understanding of physical processes.
  • Aims to develop advanced numerical models to increase the accuracy of weather predictions.

Impact Analysis

State Governments Impact State authorities are responsible for managing the localized effects of rainfall variability, including potential droughts or floods. Action Required Must monitor regional rainfall impacts on water resources and agriculture; coordinate with the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare and the Ministry of Home Affairs for official drought or flood declarations.

Ministry of Earth Sciences / IMD Impact Tasked with providing the technical foundation for national weather readiness and long-term forecasting improvements. Action Required Continue daily and seasonal monitoring; implement "Mission Mausam" to upgrade observation systems and numerical forecasting models.

Administrative Authorities Impact Dependent on accurate meteorological data to protect infrastructure and resources. Action Required Utilize regular weather forecasts and warnings provided by the IMD to take necessary operational and preventative measures.