New weather map aids Maharashtra farmers' agricultural planning

New Delhi, March 23: A new weather map has been created to better assist farmers in India. This new map is a response to concerns about out-of-date information regarding monsoon timings. The previous map, made in 1943, provided only a general idea of when the monsoon arrives. However, it did not help farmers decide when to plant crops or expect rainfall. The new map, produced by the Meteorological Department's Poona office, focuses specifically on Maharashtra. This updated monsoon map shows the expected dates for the "Commencement of Sowing Rain" at the taluka, or local level. It also gives information about the time between rainfall spells for each district. Such details are crucial for farmers to select the right crops. Dr. C.R.V. Raman led the preparation of the new map, working alongside agricultural scientists from both the State and Central Governments. He believes that combining the new CSR chart with soil information will help create better strategies for dealing with droughts.