India's weak and uneven monsoon is beginning to affect the kharif sowing season, with farmers delaying the planting of key crops such as rice, pulses and oilseeds due to inadequate rainfall.

The slowdown in sowing has raised concerns over lower crop production and the possibility of higher food prices in the coming months.

The delayed monsoon, coupled with the developing El Niño, has increased uncertainty for agriculture. If rainfall does not improve soon, farm incomes, rural demand and food supplies could come under pressure.

There is a possibility that a weaker harvest may push up inflation, although government grain stocks may help cushion the immediate impact on rice supplies.