The agrarian states of Punjab and Haryana are the cereal bowl of agriculture. Wheat and Paddy are the main 'food crops' of Rabi and Kharif, respectively. The contribution to the central pool is so very crucial to India's food security. Punjab and Haryana offer over 80% of the wheat to the national buffer stock.
Pre- Monsoon season spans from March to June for northwest India. And this season is a game-changer for the agricultural produce of both these crops. The first two months i.e. March and April are literally decisive for the Rabi harvest and yield while May and June base foundation for the sowing of Kharif. The month of April fret the farmers most for its unpredictability and therefore the quality and quantum of the produce. Any prolonged inclement weather can spoil and seal the fate of the farmer, while decent turn out raises hope and excitement for bumper stocks.
Rains have been in excess, nearly 3 times of its normal, this season in Punjab. From 01st March till 27th April, the state registered nearly 100mm of rain against the normal of 36mm, amounting to an excess 178%. These rains have been evenly distributed and spaced well to recover from the damage on account of strong winds and heavy downpour around mid- April. To gauge the intensity of these rains, three locations, Amritsar (Majha Region), Patiala (Malwa Region) and Chandigarh (State Capital) reflect a broader picture of the season so far:
A big share of wheat crop has been harvested and the produce being transported to' Mandis'. Benign weather conditions are in demand for safe disposal, partly cloudy sky with light patchy rains are expected in the remaining days of April. Foothills of Punjab may have moderate showers at few places in the next 24 hours.