July 7, 07:30

Indian farmers predicted rains centuries before meteorological forecasts existed

Long before the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) issued its first forecast, farmers across India developed their own methods of observing the sky. These practices were not merely isolated folk beliefs; in many regions, communities followed meticulously refined systems that were perfected over generations, recorded in texts, and passed down with striking consistency.

Astronomy and Panchang

Some of the oldest methods of predicting rain in India were closely linked to astronomy. One of the earliest known Indian texts on astronomy and chronology, Vedanga Jyotisha, laid the foundation for the Panchang—the Hindu calendar still used in many parts of the country. By tracking the movement of the Sun, Moon, and stars, communities could anticipate seasonal changes, including rainfall patterns.

Centuries later, the astronomer and scholar Varahamihira expanded these ideas in his work 'Brihat Samhita,' written in the 6th century CE. In it, he described the interrelationships between precipitation, celestial events, and atmospheric conditions. Some researchers suggest that part of these observations bears resemblance to modern meteorological concepts.

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Indian farmers predicted rains long before meteorological forecasts emerged

Beyond astronomical traditions, farmers gradually developed local forecasting methods. One such example from Andhra Pradesh is Tatta Sanketam, which involved placing a glass on top of a basket filled with grain while a child carefully balanced it. The direction the glass fell, interpreted alongside planetary positions, was considered an indicator of the coming monsoon's character.

Research and Indicators

Dr. K Ravi Shankar, a senior agricultural scientist who documented traditional forecasting methods in Andhra Pradesh villages for three years, found that farmers relied on a surprisingly wide range of signals before deciding on planting. His research recorded 24 biological and 42 non-biological indicators, totaling 66. Farmers rarely relied on a single sign but instead compared multiple observations before making decisions that could determine the entire season's harvest.

Among the non-biological signs, many households monitored how quickly stored salt or palm sugar became damp or sticky. Faster changes were often interpreted as signs of increased humidity and approaching rain.

Natural and Domestic Signs

Over generations, farmers learned to read the changes occurring around their homes and fields. Frequent ear twitching in goats, the constant hooting of owls at night, and the rapid movement of red-colored caterpillars toward shelter were considered signs of imminent rain. Scientists later discovered that many insects can detect humidity changes through their antennae long before humans feel them, which may explain the apparent reliability of such observations.

Even the kitchen fire became part of the forecast. Smoke from evening cooking that remained low instead of rising freely was viewed as a sign of increased air moisture. The early return of bees to hives and the hurried repair of spider webs by sleeping spiders also served as additional warnings of weather changes.

Plants as Information Sources

It was believed that plants also held clues. In some villages in Andhra Pradesh, community elders studied the pods of the Flame Tree, known for its bright orange flowers and found throughout India under various local names. The pods contain seeds in the lower, middle, and upper sections. According to local beliefs, the appearance of the most developed seed indicated the time of the strongest rain during the season.

A larger lower seed foreshadowed heavy rains at the beginning of the monsoon, a fuller middle seed indicated more abundant rainfall mid-season, and a larger upper seed signaled heavy rains closer to the end. If all three seeds developed evenly, farmers expected a more balanced monsoon.

The Significance of Traditional Knowledge Today

What made many of these traditions remarkable was not just the observations themselves, but how they were applied. Farmers rarely relied on a single signal in isolation; instead, they cross-referenced numerous indicators before making a planting decision, approaching agricultural choices with the caution and discipline required by uncertainty.

This approach seems particularly relevant today. Predicting the Indian monsoon using only historical patterns is becoming increasingly difficult. Even as new technologies, including AI-based forecasting tools, begin to help millions of farmers prepare for the season, uncertainty remains a defining characteristic of Indian agriculture. Long before this phrase existed, many farming communities practiced a form of citizen science—accumulating knowledge through repeated observation, testing patterns over time, and passing on these lessons from generation to generation. Their methods did not depend on satellites, supercomputers, or smartphone apps, but rather on something equally valuable: close attention to the surrounding world, careful comparison of observations, and the understanding that a good forecast depends as much on local knowledge as it does on technology.

www.aajtak.inJune 30, 09:35

Monsoon approaches Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand; rains expected

Residents of Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand, who have suffered from intense heat and humidity for a long time, may expect relief as the southwest monsoon is soon to reach these two states. According to meteorological service forecasts, good rains are expected to begin in Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand in the coming days, bringing temporary respite from the heat.

Conditions for Monsoon Onset

According to the weather forecasting agency Skymet Weather, current weather conditions are favorable for the advance of the monsoon. A cyclonic circulation has formed over eastern Uttar Pradesh. Simultaneously, moist easterly winds coming from the Bay of Bengal have reached the northeastern parts of Uttar Pradesh. The interaction of these two atmospheric systems will help the monsoon advance rapidly northward, increasing rainfall activity.

Rainfall Schedule

Light or moderate rains may start in eastern Uttar Pradesh as early as June 30, with the possibility of thunderstorms and short-duration precipitation. The situation will strengthen on July 1, and the rain zone will expand. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), monsoon rains are expected in most parts of Uttar Pradesh and across all of Uttarakhand by July 2. Moderate or heavy rainfall is possible in some areas.

It should be noted that the monsoon usually reaches eastern Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand around June 20, but this year, due to the influence of El Niño, the monsoon has been weakened, which contributed to the persistence of hot and humid weather, and also caused a delay in the monsoon. Nevertheless, conditions are now becoming suitable.

Monsoon Advance Across India

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported that the monsoon may reach Uttarakhand within the next two days. According to the meteorological service, the northern boundary of the monsoon passes through Surat (Gujarat), Indore (Madhya Pradesh), Mandla (Madhya Pradesh), Daltanganj (Jharkhand), and Motihari (Bihar). The situation is now becoming favorable for the further advance of the monsoon into some parts of Uttarakhand.

Rain Warning in Uttarakhand

On Tuesday, the meteorological service predicted light to moderate rains or thunderstorms in many places across the state. A yellow alert was issued warning of heavy rainfall in three districts of Uttarakhand: Pauri, Pithoragarh, and Bageshwar. Thunderstorms, lightning, heavy rains, and winds of 30 to 40 kilometers per hour are expected in all mountainous regions of the state. Heavy rain accompanied by strong winds is possible in some places. A special warning for thunderstorms, lightning, and strong winds has been issued for the districts of Haridwar and Udham Singh Nagar. The meteorological service stated that the maximum temperature across Uttarakhand could drop by 4–6 degrees Celsius over the next three to four days.

According to Skymet, good monsoon rains are expected in most of Uttar Pradesh and all of Uttarakhand by July 2, with moderate or heavy precipitation possible in some areas, which will be considered an effective arrival of the monsoon in these regions.

thebetterindia.comJune 27, 06:30

Indian Dishes Map During Monsoon Season: Over 50 Recipes to Welcome the Rains

When the first rain begins, enveloping the air in mist, the atmosphere becomes more vibrant. This moment, filled with the scent of post-rain earth, is often accompanied by a desire to enjoy hot snacks.

Diversity of Culinary Traditions

Across India, people celebrate the monsoon season differently. For instance, southern states prefer Parippu Vada, while northern regions associate this period with the ancient drink Jaggery. The culinary map of India reflects the unity of the country through a visually rich diversity of dishes.

Famous Monsoon Dishes

Below are stories of some well-known dishes that are perfect for this time of year.

Maharashtra and Seafood

The pride of Maharashtra is Bombay Duck, which is used in numerous dishes due to its versatility. One such dish is Bombil Bhujna, or Bombay Duck curry. It is a fish marinade with coriander and green chili, which perfectly suits the weather.

Southern Favorite: Parippu Vada

The love for fried snacks in rainy weather is undeniable. Southern states prepare Parippu Vada, which are filling because they are made from lentils. A mixture of chana (chickpeas) and tur dal (split pigeon peas) is used as a base, mixed with onion, ginger, and other spices, resulting in golden fried patties.

Chitrarghar Comfort: Aamat

In Chitrarghar, warm dishes are valued. The recipe for Aamat is passed down through generations; it was originally prepared with Gondi and Kareel, now known as bamboo shoots. The modern version is enriched with ingredients such as chili, curry leaves, cloves, and powdered spices, giving the dish a unique flavor.

Delhi Dish: Singade Ki Sabzi

Monsoons bring both relief and the risk of catching a cold, so dishes during this time are carefully prepared to provide the body with nutrients to fight infections. An example of such a dish is Singade Ki Sabzi from Delhi, made from singade (water chestnuts), mustard seeds, cumin, turmeric, amchur (dried mango powder), and besan. This combination helps the body build defense against harsh weather.

Rajasthani Sweet: Ghevar

Rajasthani traditions tell of how this sweet dish is prepared upon the arrival of a daughter in a new family. Over time, the mixture of ghee, flour, and sugar has transformed from a simple delicacy into a favorite across India. During the monsoons, this honeycomb-shaped disc provides the calories necessary to warm the body and improve digestion. Today, there are modern variations such as Malai Ghevar, Chocolate Ghevar, and Rabdi Ghevar.

Spiritual Drink Jaggery

This drink speaks of the mountains. Indigenous communities have always believed in the power of this beverage due to its unique components. It is said to have hallucinogenic properties and is known as

www.aajtak.inJune 23, 04:02

Monsoon continues to advance across several states, precipitation expected in various regions

The southwestern monsoon is covering more and more states, bringing both heavy rains and brief showers among the clouds. According to meteorologists' forecasts, the monsoon may become more active on June 23, leading to an increase in precipitation intensity in many areas. The weather impact is noticeable in both South and East India, as well as in some parts of North India. According to Skymet data, several active weather systems are operating simultaneously over the country, expanding the area of rainfall. The monsoon is currently moving through parts of Maharashtra, Telangana, Odisha, Jharkhand, Bihar, and Chhattisgarh. While heavy rain continues along the coasts of Kerala and Karnataka, affecting people's lives. Today, strong rains are forecast to persist in some parts of Kerala and Karnataka, as well as the possibility of heavy rainfall and thunderstorms in Northeast India and Sikkim. In North India, including Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Delhi-NCR, dust storms and thunderstorms are possible.