India braces itself for unusually hot March, putting wheat, rapeseed crops at risk, say sources

Higher temperatures in March are expected to boost electricity demand. Read more at straitstimes.com.

MUMBAI – India is likely to record one of its warmest Marches on record, with above-average temperatures forecast in key wheat and rapeseed-growing states, potentially cutting yields, two weather bureau sources said on Feb 26.

India, the world’s second-largest wheat producer and biggest importer of edible oils, is counting on bumper 2026 crops to export surplus wheat and cut costly imports of palm, soya and sunflower oils.

However, higher temperatures during the crucial grain-filling and maturity stages could cut yields, trimming overall production that was expected to reach a record high.

Higher temperatures in March are expected to boost electricity demand.

“Maximum and minimum temperatures in northern and north-western states are likely to be significantly above average in March,” said a senior official at the India Meteorological Department (IMD), who did not wish to be identified ahead of the official announcement from the weather office.

The IMD is expected to release its forecast for March temperatures later this week. It did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the March outlook.