Patiala, June 21 -- With the southwest monsoon running behind schedule and Punjab recording below-normal rainfall through June so far, concerns are growing over increased dependence on groundwater during the ongoing paddy transplantation season, which could further strain the state's already depleted resources.

According to the India Meteorological Department's (IMD) special weather report, Punjab recorded a 20% rainfall deficit between June 1 and June 19, receiving 21.1 mm rainfall against the normal 30.2 mm.

In comparison, neighbouring Haryana-Chandigarh-Delhi meteorological division recorded 17% surplus rainfall during the same period.

The situation has been exacerbated by the sluggish advancement of southwest monsoon, which current...