India's Summer Crops at Risk as August Rainfall Hits Record Low

India is experiencing its driest August in over a century, with record low rainfall likely to persist due to the El Niño weather pattern, according to officials from the India Meteorological Department. The lack of rainfall could negatively impact summer-sown crops, such as rice and soybeans, leading to higher prices and overall food inflation. The monsoon, which provides around 70% of India's required rainfall, is crucial for the country's economy. The dry conditions are expected to continue in southern and northwestern states, while some improvement is anticipated in the northeast and central regions. The prolonged dry spell and low soil moisture levels pose a threat to crop yields, emphasizing the urgent need for rainfall.