New Delhi, Oct. 3 -- Farmers are preparing for the winter cropping season, but India is entering a period of uncertainty as depleted soil moisture and a strengthening El Nino raise the risk of delayed sowing, lower acreage and weaker yields, while also putting pressure on water availability and food supplies.

The concern comes after the southwest monsoon ended with rainfall 12.6% below normal, making it the fourth-lowest monsoon rainfall since 2001. East and northeast India recorded a 25% deficit, while south peninsular India was 24% below normal, leaving several farming regions with limited moisture as the winter crop season approaches.

"The deficient southwest monsoon of 2026, closed with a 13% below the long-period average and 21% be...