February 2001
India's 2001/02 winter grain season has been characterized by
unusually dry weather. The weak monsoon during the entire month
of September left much of the wheat region with inadequate soil
moisture. The dry soil conditions likely resulted in a drop in
sown area as farmers waited for planting rains, which failed to
materialize. Very low precipitation amounts were recorded in most
wheat growing states during the optimal planting and
establishment period of mid-October to mid-December, and dryness
continued through January. Irrigated wheat (which comprises 80
percent of India's total) should do well if temperatures and pest
pressures remain low. Neighboring Pakistan has experienced
similar weather conditions this season: dry conditions in rainfed
areas which may reduce yield potential. However, losses may be
partially offset by favorably cool temperatures in irrigated
wheat areas.