Monsoon 2026: Best Crops for Farmers as IMD Predicts Weak Rainfall

New Delhi:Monsoon 2026: Best Crops for Farmers as IMD Predicts Weak Rainfall. With the 2026 Kharif season approaching, farmers across India are preparing for a difficult monsoon after the India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicted rainfall to remain below normal this year. According to the latest forecast, the country is expected to receive around 92% of its average seasonal rainfall, raising concerns in many rain-dependent farming regions.

The warning comes at a crucial time, as farmers are now deciding which crops to sow for the upcoming season. At the same time, intense pre-monsoon heatwaves are already affecting several northern states, adding to worries about soil moisture and water availability.

Experts believe the growing impact of El Niño during the second half of the monsoon could lead to uneven rainfall, longer dry spells, and weaker showers during August and September — the most important months for crop growth. Agricultural economists say that if rainfall remains inconsistent, it could directly affect food production, farmer incomes, and rural livelihoods.

In response, the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare has started preparing contingency measures. Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan recently reviewed the preparedness plans and instructed agricultural agencies and ICAR scientists to ensure sufficient availability of drought-resistant seed varieties. The government is also encouraging farmers to adopt climate-resilient farming practices to reduce risks during uncertain weather conditions.

States such as Rajasthan, Gujarat, Punjab, and parts of Central India are expected to face higher chances of moisture stress if rainfall weakens later in the season. Agricultural departments are advising farmers, especially small and marginal cultivators, to avoid excessive dependence on water-intensive crops.

On the ground, many farmers are already reconsidering their crop choices. Instead of expanding paddy cultivation, several are planning to shift toward crops that need less water and can survive with limited rainfall. For families dependent entirely on monsoon rains, choosing the right crop this season may determine whether they make a profit or face financial losses.

As the monsoon is expected to reach the Kerala coast in the coming weeks, attention is now focused on the IMD’s updated forecast expected later this month. Agricultural experts say that timely sowing, short-duration crop varieties, and efficient water management could still help farmers protect yields even if rainfall remains below average.

Recommended Crops for the 2026 Kharif Season

Considering the possibility of weaker rainfall and dry conditions during the later part of the monsoon, experts are advising farmers to focus on crops that require less water and mature quickly.

Millets (Shree Anna)

Crops like Bajra, Jowar, and Ragi are emerging as strong options this season. These crops are naturally drought-tolerant, perform well in hot weather, and need far less water compared to paddy cultivation. They also offer stable fodder and grain value for rural households.

Pulses

Short-duration pulse crops such as Moong and Urad are being recommended for rainfed areas. These varieties can often be harvested within two to two-and-a-half months, helping farmers avoid late-season moisture stress if rainfall declines after August.

Oilseeds

Soybean and Groundnut continue to remain suitable choices in several regions, especially where farmers can access certified climate-resilient seed varieties. These crops also have good market demand and play an important role in domestic edible oil production.

Maize

In areas with limited irrigation support, maize is being seen as a safer alternative crop. It adapts relatively well to changing weather conditions and currently has strong demand from the poultry feed and ethanol industries.

Cotton

Farmers in Telangana and Central Indian cotton belts may still opt for cotton cultivation, but experts are advising early sowing and careful pest management. Fluctuating humidity and irregular rainfall could increase pest pressure during the season.

Overall, agricultural scientists are stressing that flexibility and timely decision-making will be the key to managing the 2026 Kharif season successfully.