Tardy monsoon pushes back kharif sowing; India 37% rain deficient

The slow onset of monsoon in India has delayed sowing of key crops such as paddy, oilseeds and pulses, as the country has received deficient rainfall, which may lead to lower yield. Private weather forecaster, Skymet, has predicted a "dismal" outlook until the first week of July, which is crucial for preparing fields for the kharif season. Soyabean, which requires a high amount of water, is expected to be one of the most affected crops.