Early Monsoon Withdrawal from Rajasthan Signals Shift in Weather Patterns

Jaipur, Rajasthan, September 15, 2025

The southwest monsoon has officially begun its withdrawal from parts of western Rajasthan, three days ahead of its normal schedule. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) announced today that the retreat, which marks the earliest withdrawal in a decade, is in line with the fulfillment of all necessary meteorological criteria. These include the development of an anti-cyclonic circulation over the region, a period of no rainfall for five consecutive days, and a reduction in the atmosphere's moisture content. While the early departure of the monsoon might not have a significant impact on this year’s Kharif crop, as sowing operations are already complete, it raises concerns about the changing weather patterns and their long-term implications for the state’s agriculture and water resources. Rajasthan, a state heavily dependent on seasonal rainfall for both its agricultural sector and drinking water supply, has long been at the mercy of the monsoon's whims. The early onset and subsequent early withdrawal this year highlight a growing trend of erratic weather events, which experts attribute to climate change. The IMD has also warned that while the monsoon is retreating from the northwest, it is set to bring heavy to very heavy rainfall to other parts of the country, including the northeastern states and Maharashtra, in the coming days. This further underscores the uneven and unpredictable nature of the current weather systems. For Rajasthan, the focus now shifts to managing water resources for the upcoming Rabi season. The state's key reservoirs, which were adequately replenished by a strong monsoon this year, are expected to sustain agricultural activities through the winter. However, the early withdrawal serves as a critical reminder for policymakers to prioritize long-term water conservation strategies, including the expansion of micro-irrigation and crop diversification, to build resilience against future climate-related challenges. The early withdrawal of the monsoon is a clear signal that the state must proactively adapt its policies to ensure sustainable development in the face of an increasingly volatile climate.