The state of Sikkim recorded its worst monsoon shortfall in five years, with a 35% rainfall deficit as of mid-July. The drop in rainfall has raised serious concerns about agriculture, water availability, and hydropower generation in this Himalayan region.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), this Sikkim monsoon shortfall is the most severe since 2020. Rainfall between June 1 and July 15 measured only 384.6 mm, against the normal average of 591.2 mm for this period.
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Sikkim monsoon shortfall impacts farming and water resources
The 35% shortfall has left many areas dry during what is usually the peak monsoon period. Farmers in the South and West Sikkim districts are facing difficulty in sowing paddy and maize, which are heavily dependent on timely rain.
Karma Bhutia, a farmer from Namchi, said, “We used to rely on the June showers to begin our cultivation. This year, the fields are cracked, and the soil remains too dry.”
Besides agriculture, the Sikkim monsoon shortfall is also affecting water supply in rural and semi-urban areas. Springs, which act as the main water source for many Sikkimese households, have started drying up earlier than usual.
To manage the situation, the state’s agriculture department has urged farmers to delay sowing and switch to drought-resistant crop varieties wherever possible.
Hydropower output under pressure
Sikkim is known for its hydropower potential, with several major rivers flowing down from the Himalayas. However, reduced rainfall means lower river levels, putting pressure on hydroelectric power generation.
The Teesta Stage III and Rangit Stage IV hydropower plants are already running below full capacity. Officials confirmed that water flow into reservoirs has dropped by nearly 30%, leading to decreased power output in July.
Because of this Sikkim monsoon shortfall, the state could face power rationing if rainfall does not improve by August. Neighbouring states that depend on Sikkim’s energy exports may also experience short-term electricity shortages.
Climate pattern shift worries experts
Meteorologists attribute this year’s shortfall to shifting monsoon patterns and weakening low-pressure systems over the Bay of Bengal. Normally, Sikkim receives heavy rainfall during June and July. But this year, the rain-bearing clouds have largely bypassed the region.
Dr. Tashi Dorji, a senior weather scientist in Gangtok, explained, “There has been a delay in monsoon onset and weaker monsoon currents. These changes are likely linked to global warming and El Niño conditions.”
While the IMD expects some improvement in the coming weeks, it warns that overall rainfall may still remain below average. As Sikkim monsoon shortfall worsens, environmentalists are urging authorities to revise water conservation and disaster planning strategies.
State government begins monitoring and planning
In response, the Sikkim government has activated drought monitoring cells and asked district authorities to prepare contingency plans. Rainwater harvesting, irrigation support, and spring rejuvenation projects are being fast-tracked.
Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang held a review meeting with agriculture and disaster management departments on Tuesday. He instructed officials to provide immediate aid to farmers and ensure drinking water supply in affected villages.
“We are closely monitoring the situation. Relief measures will be implemented wherever needed,” the CM assured during a press briefing in Gangtok.
Looking ahead: hope for August rains
Although July has been dry, meteorologists believe there is still hope for some recovery in August. The IMD has predicted a revival in monsoon activity during the last week of July, which could bring much-needed showers to the region.
Nevertheless, the long-term impact of the Sikkim monsoon shortfall will likely affect this year’s agricultural yield and the local economy. Both the government and farmers are now racing against time to protect the remaining crop window.
Experts say this trend highlights the need for sustainable water use, better climate data, and diversification in farming practices.
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