Explained: India’s weak monsoon, El Niño, and the risks ahead

India's southwest monsoon entered an unusually weak phase after a poor start to the season.

El Niño conditions are strengthening, which historically reduces monsoon rainfall.

Weak monsoon and El Niño could reduce kharif crop yields, raise food inflation, and lower rural incomes.

The southwest monsoon provides about 70% of India's annual rainfall, critical for agriculture and water supply.