India monsoon rainfall deficit threatens crops

India's monsoon is expected to bring below-average rainfall to western, central, and southern regions over the next fortnight, threatening newly planted cotton, soybean, corn, and pulse crops. The Malaysia — Malaysian Meteorological Department forecasts a significant rainfall deficit, which is likely to widen due to a strengthening El Niño–Southern Oscillation. India has already received 12% less rainfall than average this monsoon season, with India — Andhra Pradesh recording deficits up to 34%. Farmers have planted summer-sown crops on 96.8 million hectares, nearly 2% lower than last year, and the crops are vulnerable to dry spells as their roots have not yet penetrated deep into the soil.