Favorable Monsoon Boosts Kharif Crop Sowing in India

The latest report by research firm ICRA suggests that kharif crop sowing in India is set to surpass last year's levels, aided by a favorable monsoon. Sown in June and July, the main crops include moong, rice, and maize. Forecasts of above-normal rainfall are conducive for ongoing and future agricultural activities.

A recent report from ICRA indicates that kharif crop sowing for this season is expected to exceed the levels recorded last year, bolstered by favorable monsoon conditions. The report reveals that sowing has been completed on 76% of the normal sown area, marking a 4% increase year-on-year as of July 2025.

Kharif crops, which include moong, rice, and maize, are sown during the monsoon months of June and July. The Indian Meteorological Department's forecast of above-normal rainfall for August and September bodes well for continuous sowing and reservoir replenishment, which will benefit the forthcoming rabi season starting from October.

The ICRA report also highlights India receiving above-normal rainfall in July 2025, with the entire Southwest Monsoon season expected to surpass 106% of the long period average. The report estimates the Gross Value Added (GVA) growth in agriculture, forestry, and fishing for the first quarter of 2025-26 to be approximately 4.5%, with a notable increase in real rural wages, aiding in boosting rural consumption demand.

(With inputs from agencies.)