Kharif Crop Sowing Sees Significant Increase Amid Better Monsoon Rains

The area under paddy cultivation for the ongoing kharif season has risen by 7% to 166.06 lakh hectares, thanks to favorable monsoon rains. Total sowing for kharif crops has increased to 704.04 lakh hectares. Notable increases were seen in pulses and oilseeds, while coarse cereals and cotton saw declines.

The latest data from the Agriculture Ministry reveals a 7% increase in paddy cultivation, amounting to 166.06 lakh hectares for the ongoing kharif season, driven by better monsoon rains.

Last year, paddy sowing stood at 155.65 lakh hectares till mid-July. Additionally, overall kharif crop sowing expanded to 704.04 lakh hectares from 680.36 lakh hectares last year.

Pulses and oilseeds saw substantial growth in their acreage, with pulses rising to 85.79 lakh hectares and oilseeds jumping to 163.11 lakh hectares. However, the acreage for coarse cereals and cotton displayed downward trends.

Higher domestic acreage of pulses and oilseeds could potentially reduce dependence on imports, provided weather conditions remain favorable until harvest.

(With inputs from agencies.)