Monsoon Begins Retreat From Rajasthan Amid 15% Rain Deficit

The southwest monsoon has begun its annual retreat from India, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) confirming the withdrawal line has moved across western Rajasthan. The development marks the start of the end for the June-September rainy season, which has delivered cumulative rainfall nearly 15% below the long-period average, raising concerns about a significant seasonal deficit. As of September 20, the withdrawal line passes through Ramgarh, Mohangarh, Phalodi, and Khajuwala in Rajasthan. The IMD stated the withdrawal is close to the normal date of September 17, with a deviation of a few days. The process is expected to progress gradually towards other parts of northwest and central India, including Punjab, Saurashtra, and Kutch, over the next three to four days. Despite the retreat, the monsoon remains active over large parts of the country. The IMD forecasts widespread rainfall across eastern, central, and southern India in the coming week. Heavy to very heavy rain is expected in Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Gangetic West Bengal, and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.