Bumper Kharif Sowing: Paddy and Cotton Lead the Surge

The current Kharif season has seen a 58% increase in paddy sowing, covering 13.22 lakh hectares. Pulses and cereals are also up, while oilseeds have reduced. The total area under Kharif crops now spans 137.84 lakh hectares, with positive contributions from cotton and sugarcane as the monsoon improves.

The Kharif season has witnessed a promising start, with a notable 58% rise in paddy sowing, totaling 13.22 lakh hectares, according to government data released up to June 20, 2025. This marks a significant increase compared to the 8.37 lakh hectares recorded in the same period last year.

The Department of Agriculture's report shows a rise in the acreage of pulses to 9.44 lakh hectares, up from 6.63 lakh hectares. Similarly, sowing of Shri Anna cum Coarse cereals has expanded to 18.03 lakh hectares compared to last year's 14.77 lakh hectares.

Meanwhile, the area under oilseeds has decreased slightly, and sugarcane plantation has increased marginally. The overall area under all Kharif crops now stands at an impressive 137.84 lakh hectares. The Indian Meteorological Department has forecast a favorable monsoon, further boosting agricultural prospects.

(With inputs from agencies.)