The monsoon rains necessary for pulse crops in India are forecast to be below normal in 2026, creating early uncertainty over upcoming production prospects. The India Meteorological Department released its first forecast for the 2026 monsoon season on April 13, predicting rainfall will reach 92 per cent of the long-term average. That marked the lowest early forecast of the past three decades. The southwest monsoon typically runs from June through September as it advances northward and accounts for about 70 per cent of India’s seasonal rainfall. The IMD defines normal rainfall as between 96 and 104 per cent of a 50-year average of 87 centimetres for the four-month season. India’s rabi season crops, which include lentils and chickpeas, are typically seeded in November and December. They rely on the moisture reserves from the monsoon rains for germination and growth.