New Delhi, April 13 -- India's rural economy may come under pressure in 2026 due to a possible below-normal monsoon and rising agricultural input costs, according to a report by Systematix Group.

The report warns, "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," ANI reported.

Monsoon Outlook Raises Concerns

The report projects a below-normal southwest monsoon at around 94 per cent of the long-period average, citing Skymet Weather estimates.

While rainfall during June and July is expected to remain relatively stable, a likely shortfall in August and September could affe...