Kharif Sowing Gains Momentum in Maharashtra's Kej Taluka; Cultivation Across 70,000 Hectares, with 64,000 Hectares Dedicated to Soybean
Kej (Beed): Sowing for the Kharif season is nearly complete in Kej Taluka, located in Maharashtra's Beed district, thanks to favorable monsoon rains this year. According to Agriculture Department data, Kharif crops have been sown across an area of 69,813 hectares so far. Soybean accounts for the largest share, covering 64,215 hectares, whereas cotton cultivation is limited to just 1,943 hectares. This clearly indicates that farmers continue to place their greatest trust in soybean crops.
Farmers had begun preparations for the Kharif season—including field ploughing and the procurement of seeds and fertilizers—as early as the last week of May. Following good rainfall over three consecutive days starting June 6, farmers commenced large-scale sowing of soybean and other Kharif crops. While the initial rains facilitated good progress, a subsequent dry spell lasting about 15 days slowed the pace of sowing. Many farmers had paused sowing operations while waiting for the next round of rain.
Once good rainfall resumed after June 20, farmers rapidly accelerated field activities, leading to a swift expansion of the sown area. Consequently, the total area under Kharif crops in the taluka reached 69,813 hectares. In addition to soybean, crops such as green gram (moong), black gram (urad), pigeon pea (arhar), and maize were also sown, though their acreage remains significantly lower compared to soybean. Cotton cultivation also remained confined to a limited area.
Soybean and other crops sown during the first week of June have germinated well. However, the mid-season break in rainfall raised concerns about potential impacts on crop growth. Many farmers attempted to save their crops by irrigating them using available water sources. Soybean crops sown during the last week of June have also sprouted, and the fields are now showing signs of greenery. Farmers are currently pinning their hopes on good rainfall. Although the region has remained cloudy for the past week, there has been no significant rainfall. Farmers state that if there is good rain during the second half of July, the growth of all Kharif crops—including soybeans—will improve, raising the likelihood of higher yields. Agricultural experts also believe that if timely rainfall continues, Kharif production in Kej Taluka is expected to be satisfactory this year.
