New Delhi, June 27: Despite predicting a "normal" rainfall this year, the India Meteorological Department has recorded a deficit Monsoon so far. For the week ending on June 26, the quantum of rains in the nation was 24 per cent below average, the weather office said in a statement issued on Thursday.

The deficiency in rainfall was majorly recorded in central and western India, where most parched areas are yet to receive adequate amount of downpour. Due to the below-average Monsoon, water cuts have continued in most parts of the nation despite the onset of Monsoon. Monsoon 2019 Schedule Update: Rainfall to Gain Strength This Week

The worst brunt of deficit rainfall is being faced by the agrarian community, which has been forced to delay the sowing of kharif crops.

According to the Agriculture Ministry of India, nearly 30 to 50 per cent of major crops in India, including key varieties of soybean, rice and corn have not been sowed yet due to the inadequate rainfall.

Apart from delaying the sowing of crops, deficit Monsoon will also affect farming in 55 per cent of agricultural fields of India, which are directly dependent on rains for irrigation.

Notably, Monsoon arrived in Kerala on June 8 -- nearly 10 days after the usual onset period. The impact of rainfalls, however, was subdued as cyclone vayu weakened the Southwest Monsoon winds by drawing away its moisture.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jun 27, 2019 06:23 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).