India Sees Monsoon Rains Starting Early, Aiding Crop Sowing

India expects its monsoon rains to arrive early this year, offering some relief for farmers who rely on the seasonal showers for timely sowing of crops like rice and soybeans.

The rainy period, which usually runs from June to September, will begin on May 26 in the southern state of Kerala, according to a statement from the India Meteorological Department. If realized, that would be the second earliest start date in data through 2020.