Minister Sees Better Rain
Key Highlights
- Agriculture Minister says Kharif acreage shortfall can still be recovered.
- Sowing operations will continue until August 15.
- Government expects improved rainfall after July 20.
- Centre is ensuring timely supply of seeds and fertilisers.
- Kharif crop acreage remains below last year’s levels due to delayed monsoon.
New Delhi: Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan has expressed confidence that the current shortfall in Kharif crop sowing can be recovered, as planting activities will continue until August 15.
The minister said the government is closely monitoring rainfall patterns and crop sowing across the country. Although rainfall was below normal during June, improved showers in early July and expectations of better rainfall after July 20 could help farmers increase cultivation.
Chouhan said the Centre is ensuring timely availability of seeds, fertilisers and other essential agricultural inputs to support farmers during the ongoing sowing season.
According to Agriculture Ministry data, total Kharif crop coverage stood at 531.25 lakh hectares as of July 10, around 16% lower than the corresponding period last year due to the delayed monsoon.
The acreage under paddy, pulses, coarse cereals, oilseeds and cotton has declined compared to last year, while sugarcane and jute have recorded marginal increases.
The minister said the government remains hopeful that improved weather conditions during the remaining sowing period will help narrow the acreage gap.
