New Delhi, April 13 -- India's rural economy is facing a dual threat in 2026 from a potential monsoon shortfall and a sharp rise in input costs, both of which could weigh on agricultural output, farmer incomes, rural demand, and food inflation.

According to a report by Systematix, the combination of a likely below-normal monsoon and elevated agro-input costs driven by global conflicts creates a sombre outlook for the agricultural sector.

"The combination of a likely below-normal 2026 monsoon and elevated agro-input costs due to the US-Iran conflict creates a challenging outlook for agricultural production, rural consumption, and inflation management," noted the report.

This shift follows a strong 2025 monsoon and mirrors the disruptive...