As of June 11, 2024, the Southwest Monsoon has advanced significantly in south India and parts of Maharashtra. This advancement is critical for oilseeds such as soybeans and groundnuts in key states like Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Gujarat.

Maharashtra
In Maharashtra, the monsoon has covered most parts by early June, with actual onset dates around June 5-7, which aligns closely with the normal onset dates. This timely arrival of monsoon rains is beneficial for the timely sowing of soybean and groundnut crops, ensuring adequate soil moisture levels for seed germination and early crop establishment. Farmers in Maharashtra can expect a good start to the Kharif season, potentially leading to higher yields as compared to previous year if the monsoon continues to progress favourably.

Madhya Pradesh
Madhya Pradesh, another major soybean-producing state, has just started witnessing the monsoon advance, with rains arriving by June 11-12. This matches the normal onset pattern, allowing for the preparation and sowing of soybean fields. The early rains will help in building up the soil moisture, crucial for the growth phases of soybean. Given the monsoon's progress, Madhya Pradesh is poised for a favourable soybean season, assuming consistent rainfall patterns continue.

Rajasthan
Rajasthan, that grow groundnut and soybean, is likely to witness a timely onset of the monsoon by June 25-30. The alignment with normal onset dates suggests that farmers can proceed with sowing operations as planned. Early and adequate monsoon rains are essential for these rain-fed crops in Rajasthan, and better yield expected as compared to last year.

Gujarat
In Gujarat, the monsoon arrived in southern Gujarat around June 10-11, slightly earlier than the normal onset dates. This early onset is advantageous for groundnut cultivation, a significant crop in the state. The early monsoon rains will ensure sufficient soil moisture for sowing and initial growth stages, potentially leading to better yield in the state.

Conclusion
Till now, the 2024 monsoon season, has shown a favorable and timely onset. This is a positive indicator for the Kharif season, particularly for soybean and groundnut crops. Early and consistent rains will help in ensuring good crop establishment, growth, and potentially higher yields compared to last year. It is essential for farmers and stakeholders to monitor the monsoon's progress and prepare for any anomalies that might arise during the season to mitigate risks effectively.