 "Monsoon")
Country's annual monsoon rainfall is expected to be 98% of the long-term average, the country's state-run weather office said on Tuesday, raising prospects of higher farm and economic growth.
In April, the state-run India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecast this year's monsoon rains at 96% of the 50-year average of 89 cm.
The monthly rainfall across the country is likely to be 96% of its long-term average during July, and 99% of the average during August, both with a model error of 9%, the IMD said in a statement.
June-September Central India rainfall seen at 100% of average, said IMD Director Gen K G Ramesh.
IMD expects monsoon distribution to be very good and is likely to reach Bihar, Jharkhand, West Bengal by June 13-14, he added.
