New Delhi, April 2 -- Above-normal maximum temperatures during April-June will not have an impact on kharif sowing but farmers could be hit by increased irrigation costs, experts said. The matter assumes significance as agriculture contributes around 18% to India's GDP.

" I don't think so high temperature, would be having any impact on Kharif crop sowing especially paddy which commands major area under Kharif. At the moment, I am waiting for the India Meteorological Department (IMD) monsoon prediction which will be announced in mid-Aptil. If there is normal, above- normal rainfall or good rainfall then there is no need to worry. The heat wave conditions can impact only crop like tomato," said Ashok Gulati, agricultural economist and form...