Despite the lack of precipitation, the total area sown with summer (kharif) crops in the country decreased by only slightly more than 1% compared to last year. Although such a small drop was expected due to the deficit of monsoon rainfall this year, the sowing season nevertheless concluded with an area figure exceeding the 'normal' level, meaning the average over the last five years.
Although the excess over the 'normal' level was insignificant, it indicates changes in farmers' strategy, provided that warnings are received in advance.