Kharif Crop Sowing Surpasses Normal Levels in Rice, Millets, Oilseeds, and Sugarcane

The Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare has released a progress report on Kharif crop sowing coverage as of September 17, 2024. According to the report, the sowing of Kharif crops has covered more than 1,096 lakh hectares, surpassing last year’s figures in key crops such as rice, millets, oilseeds, and sugarcane.

1. Rice Sowing
   • Current Year (2024): 410 lakh hectares
   • Last Year (2023): 393.57 lakh hectares
     Rice sowing has increased compared to the same period last year, with a significant rise in coverage from 393.57 lakh hectares to 410 lakh hectares.
2. Pulses (Dal)
   • Current Year (2024): 127.77 lakh hectares
   • Last Year (2023): 118.43 lakh hectares
     There has been a rise in pulses sowing, with 127.77 lakh hectares under cultivation, compared to 118.43 lakh hectares last year.
3. Millets (Shri Anna and Coarse Grains)
   • Current Year (2024): 189.67 lakh hectares
   • Last Year (2023): 183.11 lakh hectares
     Millet cultivation has also increased, covering 189.67 lakh hectares, up from 183.11 lakh hectares in 2023.
4. Oilseeds
   • Current Year (2024): 193.32 lakh hectares
   • Last Year (2023): 190.37 lakh hectares
     Oilseed cultivation has reached 193.32 lakh hectares, slightly up from 190.37 lakh hectares last year.
5. Sugarcane
   • Current Year (2024): 57.68 lakh hectares
   • Last Year (2023): 57.11 lakh hectares
     Sugarcane sowing has also seen a small increase, with coverage rising to 57.68 lakh hectares.

Detailed Crop-wise Comparison (Area in Lakh Hectares)

The report highlights that this year’s total sowing area has surpassed the 2023 figures, reaching 1,096.65 lakh hectares, compared to 1,072.94 lakh hectares during the same period last year. The increase in sowing area reflects positive growth in the agricultural sector, signaling strong prospects for the upcoming harvest season.

(Economy India)