Kharif Sowing Picks Up Pace Amid El Niño Concerns; Paddy and ‘Shree Anna’ Show Strong Growth
Despite weather-related challenges like El Niño and uncertainties regarding the monsoon, Kharif crop sowing across the country is progressing at an encouraging pace. According to the latest data from the Ministry of Agriculture, the total area under Kharif crops reached 119.90 lakh hectares by June 19, marking a 1.7 percent increase compared to the 117.95 lakh hectares recorded during the same period last year. This indicates that farmers have continued sowing activities despite apprehensions about the weather.
*Significant Drop in Cotton Sowing*
On the other hand, cotton cultivation appears sluggish this season. By June 19, the area under cotton stood at 17.13 lakh hectares, down from 22.82 lakh hectares during the same period last year—a decline of approximately 5.69 lakh hectares. Experts attribute this primarily to market and policy-related factors rather than weather conditions. The removal of import duties on cotton has dampened expectations of better prices for farmers, thereby impacting sowing decisions.
*Sluggishness in Oilseed Crops Too*
The total area under oilseed crops has declined to 7.24 lakh hectares, down from 8.11 lakh hectares last year. Soybean cultivation has seen a reduction of 1.20 lakh hectares, while a slight decline has also been observed in the area under sesame (til) cultivation.
*Future Rainfall Will Determine the Outcome*
Overall, the start of the Kharif 2026 season shows positive signs. Farmers have maintained the pace of sowing despite fears surrounding El Niño and a weak monsoon. However, rainfall in the coming weeks will determine how sustainable this initial momentum proves to be throughout the season.
