The monsoon rains are the main source of irrigation for India’s agriculture. Right from the common citizens to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, all hope for a good season every year for a bountiful crop.
But, the rains have not been listening to anyone’s prayers and have been acting as moody as possible, as Skymet reports.
Soon after Modi tasted sweet victory in 2014, the country has barely been able to taste the monsoon.
The first monsoon, or lack thereof, during Modi’s first year turned out to be a wave that swept through the country, but a wave of drought.
In fact, 2014 saw its worst rains in 5 years and the monsoon season ended with a deficiency of 12 percent.
The next year, El Nino’s effects proved to be even worse than before and 2015 saw the second-consecutive drought of Modi’s 5-year tenure, as the country saw barely 86 percent of rain.
2016 saw a role-reversal as El Nino was replaced by La Nina, who brought with her a normal 97 percent of rain. But, the major agricultural belts were not welcome to that monsoon party and the economy suffered.
The average Indian and Modi’s economic ambitions have both taken a beating as the rain gods continue to taunt the agricultural belt every year.
2017’s forecast is below normal, with only 95 percent being expected. Rains are likely to be scanter than last year, which means Modi may again see his economic dreams dashed by nature’s wicked games.
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