India's Kharif sowing for the 2025-26 season has shown promising progress, with a notable increase in the total cultivated area compared to the same period last year. According to the latest data released by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, the total area under Kharif crops stood at 829.64 lakh hectares as of July 25, 2025, an increase of 31.73 lakh hectares over the previous year.
Among all crops, rice has recorded the most significant growth. The area under rice cultivation has reached 245.13 lakh hectares, rising by nearly 29 lakh hectares compared to 2024-25. This substantial increase reflects favourable monsoon conditions and timely sowing in major rice-growing states.
Pulses have also shown a moderate rise in coverage, with the total area increasing to 93.05 lakh hectares from 89.94 lakh hectares last year. The growth is mainly driven by a rise in Moong and Moth bean sowing, although traditional pulses like Tur and Urad have recorded a slight decline.
Coarse cereals have also seen positive growth, with the total area reaching 160.72 lakh hectares, an increase of 5.75 lakh hectares compared to last year. Maize has contributed significantly to this growth, registering an increase of 6.66 lakh hectares. This trend may indicate a shift in farmers' preferences due to better market prospects and adaptability to changing weather conditions.
In contrast, oilseed cultivation has declined, falling to 166.89 lakh hectares, a drop of 3.83 lakh hectares from last year. Soybean, the major oilseed crop, has recorded the sharpest fall, with its area decreasing by around 4.7 lakh hectares.
Sugarcane cultivation has remained relatively stable, with a marginal increase, while jute and mesta have seen a slight decrease. Cotton sowing has also declined, down by 2.37 lakh hectares compared to the previous season.
Despite some crop-specific setbacks, the overall trend in Kharif sowing is positive, pointing to a revival in agricultural activity. While the total area remains below the five-year average of 1,096.65 lakh hectares, the year-on-year improvement offers hope for a promising harvest season.
