The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has announced that the 2024 monsoon season concluded with a notable 7.6% above average rainfall across the country. Key regions including Rajasthan, Gujarat, western Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Telangana, and Andhra Pradesh experienced significant excess rainfall, highlighting a surplus compared to typical seasonal patterns.

The withdrawal of the South West monsoon began on September 23, which is six days later than the usual date of September 17. IMD Director General Mrutyunjay Mohapatra noted that the complete withdrawal of the monsoon is expected to be finalized in the week commencing October 17, indicating a new trend of delayed monsoon withdrawal.

This variability in rainfall distribution has important implications for both rural and urban areas, as the monsoon is critical for India’s agricultural sector, with 52% of the net cultivated area relying on it. Additionally, the monsoon is essential for replenishing reservoirs that provide drinking water and support power generation throughout the country.