The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has confirmed the advance of the Southwest Monsoon 2025 over parts of the Bay of Bengal and Andaman & Nicobar Islands as of May 13, 2025, signalling an early onset that could positively impact the Indian dairy industry.
According to the IMDâs latest synoptic chart, the monsoon has progressed ahead of schedule compared to normal dates, raising expectations for an earlier onset over mainland India in the coming weeks. This development is especially critical amid ongoing concerns over milk supply shortages, procurement prices, and dairy inflation across various states.
đ§ïž A Welcome Relief for Dairy Farmers
The early monsoon could bring timely rainfall to major milk-producing regions such as Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, and Karnataka, potentially aiding fodder cultivation, pasture regeneration, and water availability for dairy cattle.
âA timely monsoon boosts green fodder availability and helps stabilize input costs in dairy farming. This is a critical relief considering the rising feed prices and strained margins,â said Dr. R.K. Sharma, Dairy Economist & Climate Analyst.
đŸ Impact on Milk Production and Prices
In recent months, the dairy industry has witnessed volatile milk procurement prices and milk price hikes across India, driven by feed shortages and climatic inconsistencies. The early monsoon may support milk yield recovery and curb consumer price pressure, provided rainfall patterns remain stable through June and July.
Dairy cooperatives like Amul, Nandini, and Mother Dairy will closely monitor rainfall trends for procurement planning and logistics.
đșïž Regional Dairy Impact Zones to Watch
- Andhra Pradesh & Tamil Nadu: Early rainfall may support buffalo milk production and improve tank-fed rural dairy systems.
- Gujarat & Rajasthan: Timely rain could reduce stress in semi-arid dairy belts, which depend heavily on the Southwest Monsoon.
- Punjab & Haryana: Slight delays are expected; however, steady rainfall in July could replenish groundwater, which is crucial for dairy operations.
đ Strategic Outlook for Dairy Stakeholders
With the IMD’s forecast showing favourable conditions for the monsoon’s further advance into the Arabian Sea and mainland India, stakeholders are optimistic about a revival in dairy market growth, especially in value-added dairy products like paneer, ghee, and curd.
For dairy processors, early planning around milk collection and chilling infrastructure will be key to leveraging the seasonal supply surplus anticipated between July and September.
