The Department of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare has announced the latest progress in the area coverage of kharif crops as of August 18, 2023. The report highlights a significant increase in the sowing area for various crops compared to the previous year, indicating a positive outlook for the agricultural sector this season.
Rice Cultivation Takes the Lead
Rice cultivation has witnessed substantial growth this year, with the sowing area reaching 360.79 lakh hectares, compared to 345.79 lakh hectares in the same period last year. This increase indicates a robust start to the kharif season, buoyed by favorable weather conditions and improved agricultural practices.
Diverse Pulses Plantation
The sowing of pulses, an essential source of protein in the Indian diet, recorded an area of 114.93 lakh hectares, slightly lower than the previous year’s 126.52 lakh hectares. Noteworthy is the variation in the cultivation of different pulse varieties, including Arhar, Urd bean, Moong bean, Kulthi, and other pulses.
Coarse Cereals and Sugarcane Thrive
Coarse cereals, known as Shri Anna, have seen steady growth, with an area of 176.39 lakh hectares sown compared to 173.60 lakh hectares last year. This category encompasses crops like Jowar, Bajra, Ragi, Small millets, and Maize, each contributing to the overall agricultural landscape.
Sugarcane, a vital cash crop, has expanded its cultivation area to 56.06 lakh hectares, a marginal increase from the previous year’s 55.32 lakh hectares. This growth signifies the continued importance of sugarcane in the economic and agricultural spheres.
Oilseeds and Cotton Trends
Oilseed cultivation has witnessed a minor decrease, with an area of 185.91 lakh hectares sown this year compared to 189.08 lakh hectares in the previous year. Notable components of oilseed cultivation include Groundnut, Soybean, Sunflower, Sesamum, Niger, Castor, and Other Oilseeds.
Similarly, cotton cultivation has shown a slight decline, with 121.86 lakh hectares sown this year compared to 124.21 lakh hectares last year. The cotton industry remains a crucial sector, contributing significantly to both domestic consumption and exports.
Overall Optimism
The cumulative sowing area for all kharif crops has exceeded expectations, crossing the 1022 lakh hectares mark, compared to 1021.48 lakh hectares in the previous year. This positive trend is indicative of the collective efforts of farmers, advancements in agricultural technology, and favorable climatic conditions.
As the kharif season progresses, stakeholders remain cautiously optimistic about the overall yield and the potential impact on food security and the agricultural economy. The Department of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare continues to monitor the situation closely, aiming to provide timely support and guidance to farmers across the country.
