Kharif sowing has crossed 1120 lakh hectares this season, with overall coverage showing an increase compared to last year, according to the Agriculture Ministry’s latest update. As of September 26, 2025, the total area sown stood at 1120.73 lakh hectares, higher than the 1113.72 lakh hectares recorded during the same period in 2024.
The official figures highlight that rice acreage climbed to 441.58 lakh hectares from 435.68 lakh hectares last year, while coarse cereals posted a sharp jump to 194.67 lakh hectares against 182.66 lakh hectares. Pulses also recorded a marginal rise at 119.85 lakh hectares, strengthening the outlook for food grain supplies.
However, not all crops registered gains. Oilseeds reported a steep decline, dropping to 190.01 lakh hectares from 200.52 lakh hectares in 2024, a fall of more than 10 lakh hectares. Cotton acreage also slipped, covering 109.98 lakh hectares compared to 112.95 lakh hectares last year. Jute and Mesta showed a slight dip, declining to 5.56 lakh hectares from 5.75 lakh hectares.
In contrast, sugarcane bucked the trend with an increase in acreage, rising to 59.07 lakh hectares compared to 57.22 lakh hectares in 2024.
The figures indicate changing patterns in farmers’ sowing choices, shaped by rainfall conditions, market demand, and government support measures. While the growth in rice, coarse cereals, and pulses is seen as a positive sign for food security, the fall in oilseeds and cotton highlights areas of concern for policymakers.
