Economy · India
Kharif Sowing Lags in Key Crops Despite Near-Normal Overall Acreage
Overall Kharif sowing acreage is nearly on par with last year, but specific key crops are lagging. Data indicates that the area under rice cultivation has declined by 4% as of September 11 of the 2026 season. While pulses and coarse cereals have seen increased coverage, rice, maize, oilseeds, sugarcane, and cotton continue to trail behind last year's figures. The Agriculture Ministry reported these figures, noting the rise in pulse acreage from 116.79 lakh hectares to 118.46 lakh hectares.
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- Centre (2): Mint, The Hindu BusinessLine