Below-normal September rains threaten crops, inflation and rural demand

India’s weather department expects less rain than usual in September.

This is worrying because farmers need rain to grow crops.

June and August were already much drier than normal, although July had slightly more rain than usual.

Crops such as rice, pulses and oilseeds may be especially affected.

Less rain could also make vegetables and cooking oils more expensive.

Farmers may earn less money, which could reduce spending in villages.

The country’s rice and maize planting areas were already smaller than last year by August 28.

A weather pattern called El Niño is making dry conditions more likely, so officials are asking people to save water and prepare for farming problems.