August rainfall fails to reduce India's monsoon deficit

India's cumulative monsoon rainfall deficit remains despite August's better-than-expected rains. This deficit has caused a significant acreage gap in kharif crop sowing. Paddy and maize acreage have both reported notable declines compared to last year. Erratic rainfall distribution prevented increased acreage for most kharif crops. Several states, including Bihar and Andhra Pradesh, face substantial rainfall deficits.

By VISHWA MOHAN