Question

The IMD collates rainfall between June and September as SW monsoon. Answer the following question. 

By 30 September, 2024 regions like Rajasthan, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, and Goa have recorded extraordinary surpluses, with Rajasthan alone seeing a 57% increase over average rainfall. Would the surplus rainfall be beneficial? How?

Answer 1

The surplus rainfall recorded by 30 September 2024 in regions like Rajasthan, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, and Goa, including a 57% increase in Rajasthan, would be beneficial in several ways:

1. Improved Water Availability: The surplus rainfall enhances surface and groundwater recharge, increasing water availability for drinking, irrigation, and other uses in these water-scarce areas.
2. Boost to Agriculture: Increased rainfall supports better crop growth and higher agricultural yields, especially important for states like Rajasthan and Gujarat, which often face water stress.
3. Enhanced Irrigation Potential: Surplus rainfall can reduce irrigation pressure on artificial sources and provide enough moisture to sustain crops, helping irrigated and rainfed farming alike.
4. Overall Water Resource Improvement: The excess rain contributes positively to reservoirs, tanks, and lakes, improving storage for use in drier periods.

Hence, the surplus rainfall is beneficial for water security, agricultural productivity, and economic stability in these regions.