Southwest monsoon completes withdrawal across India

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) announced on Tuesday that the southwest monsoon has fully retreated from all parts of India, marking the conclusion of the four-month rainfall season that sustains the nation's agricultural cycle.

The monsoon's withdrawal on October 15 this year follows a consistent seasonal pattern, with the IMD noting that the retreat occurred on October 16 in the previous year. The timing reflects the regular progression of the monsoon system as it shifts away from the Indian subcontinent toward the southern hemisphere as October advances.

The complete withdrawal of the monsoon signals the transition into the post-monsoon period, characterized by diminishing rainfall and changing weather conditions across most regions. This phase is critical for assessing the overall performance of the monsoon season, which influences agricultural output, water reservoir levels, and economic planning for the subsequent months.

The IMD continuously monitors meteorological patterns to track the monsoon's progression and withdrawal, providing essential data for farmers, policymakers, and weather-dependent sectors. The timely withdrawal ensures a smooth transition into the dry season, though the quantum of rainfall received during the monsoon period remains a significant indicator of the season's overall effectiveness for the nation's water and food security.