The Southwest Monsoon has made rapid strides across northern India, bringing much-needed relief and anticipation for farmers and livestock owners. As of mid-June 2025, the monsoon has fully covered significant parts of Rajasthan, Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, and Western Uttar Pradesh, with forecasts predicting continued rainfall in the coming days.
This accelerated monsoon progression is critical for regions dependent on rain-fed agriculture and dairy farming, especially in semi-arid belts of Rajasthan and Punjab. With early rains sweeping through key Kharif zones, sowing activities have picked up momentum, and water reservoirs are beginning to replenish.
“A swift and widespread monsoon onset is a blessing for India’s dairy farmers. It ensures green fodder availability, better hydration for livestock, and supports milk productivity,” said Dr. Ramesh Gupta, an agrometeorologist based in Jaipur.
The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued orange and red alerts for heavy rainfall in the northern hill states and parts of Eastern Rajasthan, warning of possible localised flooding and landslides.
This season, the monsoon covered its trajectory at a pace exceeding standard patterns. The IMD attributes this surge to strong cross-equatorial flows and favourable atmospheric conditions over the Arabian Sea.
Key cities, including Jaipur, Dehradun, Shimla, Jammu, and Pathankot, have recorded above-normal rainfall this week. Agricultural experts believe that the timely rains will also enhance the nutritional content and yield of cattle feed crops like maize and bajra, providing a long-term benefit to the dairy industry.
“With improved fodder availability, dairy farmers can reduce dependence on expensive supplements. This directly lowers production costs and helps maintain a steady milk supply,” noted Anjali Deshmukh, a dairy development officer in Haryana.
Moreover, the rains help replenish village ponds, improve pasture growth, and ensure a consistent water supply—factors that collectively boost animal health, fertility rates, and milk yield.
As the monsoon strengthens its grip, authorities are urging farmers to adopt water conservation practices and maintain livestock shelters to prevent disease during prolonged wet spells. With June’s rainfall already surpassing seasonal averages in several states, the stage is set for a robust Kharif and dairy season.
India’s rural economy is closely tied to the rhythm of the monsoon, and 2025’s promising onset offers hope, momentum, and much-needed relief for the farming and dairy sectors across North India.
