Kharif sowing for the 2025 season has surpassed 1120 lakh hectares, marking an increase in overall coverage compared to last year, according to the latest data from the Agriculture Ministry. As of September 26, total area sown reached 1120.73 lakh hectares—up from 1113.72 lakh hectares during the same period in 2024.
The increase is most visible in the rice and coarse cereal segments. Rice cultivation expanded to 441.58 lakh hectares, up from 435.68 lakh hectares last year. Coarse cereals posted a significant jump, with acreage rising to 194.67 lakh hectares, compared to 182.66 lakh hectares in the previous year. Pulses also recorded a marginal uptick, covering 119.85 lakh hectares, which further strengthens the country’s food grain supply prospects.
However, the season brought mixed results for other crops. Oilseed acreage fell sharply to 190.01 lakh hectares, a decline of over 10 lakh hectares from 200.52 lakh hectares last year. Cotton also saw a reduction, with the area sown declining from 112.95 lakh hectares to 109.98 lakh hectares. Jute and mesta recorded a small dip, decreasing to 5.56 lakh hectares from 5.75 lakh hectares.
In contrast, sugarcane continued its growth trend, with sowing climbing to 59.07 lakh hectares from last year’s 57.22 lakh hectares.
These patterns reflect changes in farmers’ preferences, guided by rainfall conditions, market signals, and various government policies. While the rise in staple grains like rice, cereals, and pulses supports national food security, the drop in oilseed and cotton acreage will require attention from policymakers moving forward.
