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IMD signals the southwest monsoon's retreat is approaching
Why in News?
No single dry day ends it: the three IMD criteria that declare monsoon withdrawal
The IMD has signalled the approaching withdrawal of the southwest monsoon, based on rainfall, moisture and circulation criteria.
Why it matters: general awareness
What you need to know
2 min read
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has indicated that the withdrawal of the southwest monsoon is approaching, even as rainfall continues in parts of the country.
IMD declares monsoon withdrawal based on criteria including a sustained reduction in rainfall and moisture, and the establishment of an anti-cyclonic circulation over the region, rather than a single dry day.
The southwest monsoon typically contributes the bulk of India's annual rainfall and irrigation for kharif crops.
Sources: Indian Express · Topper IAS editorial
Key facts
Remember these
- IMD declares southwest monsoon withdrawal using three criteria: sustained fall in rainfall, reduced moisture, and an anti-cyclonic circulation over the region.
- A single dry day is not sufficient to declare withdrawal.
- The southwest monsoon supplies the bulk of India's annual rainfall.
- Southwest monsoon rainfall is the main source of irrigation for kharif crops.
- Rainfall continues in parts of the country even as withdrawal approaches, since withdrawal is a gradual, region-wise process.
Prelims · Mains
How the exam will ask it
Prelims
- IMD declares monsoon withdrawal only after sustained reduction in rainfall and moisture, not a single dry spell.
- Establishment of an anti-cyclonic circulation over the region is one of IMD's withdrawal criteria.
- The southwest monsoon contributes the bulk of India's annual rainfall and irrigates kharif crops.
Mains
GS Paper 1 - Geography (Indian Monsoon). The timing of southwest monsoon withdrawal directly affects kharif harvesting and rabi sowing schedules, making IMD's criteria-based approach (rainfall, moisture, circulation) more reliable than a fixed calendar date. Given rising climate variability, accurate withdrawal forecasting is essential for agricultural planning and water resource management.
Quick recall
Answer before you reveal
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) declares the withdrawal of the southwest monsoon based on criteria that include:
- A single day without rainfall anywhere in the country
- Sustained reduction in rainfall and moisture, and formation of an anti-cyclone over the region
- A directive from the Ministry of Home Affairs
- The onset date of the northeast monsoon alone
Show answer
Answer: B — IMD declares monsoon withdrawal using criteria such as a sustained absence of significant rainfall, reduced moisture content and the establishment of an anti-cyclonic circulation over the region, not a single dry day.
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