Winter rains normally come to an end by February and rains as such decrease across the country by March. North India receives some rain during the winter months in view of frequent Western Disturbances but Central India mainly remains dry. This is because the weather systems forming in North India do not penetrate up to Central parts.
The crop cycle differs for each crop but normally winter crops are harvested by Baisakhi, held every year around April 13. However, in most parts of Maharashtra and Central India the crop are harvested by February itself. Most of the crops reach the harvesting stage by the second or third week of February.
Winter crops in North India
In North India, sometimes winter rains prolong and continue till the month of March. But, this year rains have mostly been far and few in this region. Moreover, the harvesting stage in North India is around Baisakhi. Therefore, the crops in North India have not been affected by the paltry amount of rainfall received during the last few days.
In fact, rains at this time are considered beneficial for the crops in North India, provided they are not accompanied by hail storm.
Winter crops in Central India
Hail storm always damages crops and especially if they reach the harvesting stage. So has been the case for Maharashtra. The standing mustard crops have been the worst hit in the state.
This region has been receiving rainfall since last Saturday, February 27. Rains have now eased out in Maharashtra, barring Vidarbha. Another spell of rain is expected around February 12 in Central India. The first half of March will be rather wet in most parts of North, Central and East India.
Unseasonal rain and hailstorms over the last one week across Maharashtra have damaged other Rabi crops like gram, wheat, grapes, mangoes and vegetables. Vidarbha and Marathwada regions have been the worst hit.
Image credit - ibnlive.com
