Conditions favourable for onset of southwest monsoon over South Bay of Bengal, Andaman: IMD

The southwest monsoon is set to arrive over the Bay of Bengal and Andaman Islands by the week's end. This marks a timely start to India's crucial rainfall season. However, the India Meteorological Department forecasts below-average rainfall for the country. The monsoon's arrival is vital for agriculture, impacting crops like paddy, pulses and oilseeds.