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NEW DELHI: The total acreage of Kharif crops reached 1,121.5 lakh hectares at the end of the summer sowing season this year, which is not only 6.5 lakh hectares more than the previous year but also 24.5 lakh hectares higher than the normal acreage (average of the past five years) for the season.The latest acreage data of the agriculture ministry shows the total sown area at 1,115 lakh hectares in 2024-25 and normal acreage (average of 2019-20 to 2023-24) at 1,097 lakh hectares.Though the sown area of major Kharif crops such as paddy, maize, sugarcane, and pulses has recorded an increase over the previous year, the acreage of oilseeds declined by nearly 11 lakh hectares (5.5%) in 2025-26 compared to the previous year. It also declined by around 5 lakh hectares (2.5%) compared to the normal acreage of oilseeds, despite the government’s constant efforts to increase the sown area through various interventions.The acreage data was discussed on Monday during a review meeting on preparedness for the next (Rabi) crop, chaired by agriculture minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan.Officials informed the minister that though floods due to excessive rainfall in certain states/UTs, including Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab and J&K, have affected standing crops, other regions have benefited from good rainfall, resulting in higher acreage and good crop growth. Regarding availability of water for the next sowing season, Chouhan was informed that reservoir storage levels across the country are significantly better compared to the same period last year as well as the average for the past decade. As of now, the 161 major reservoirs hold 103.5% of last year’s storage and 115% of the ten-year average storage, reflecting a positive outlook for farm productivity during the 2025-26 crop year.Reviewing the availability of fertilisers, Chouhan directed officials to ensure their “smooth and timely supply” in the coming months. He also ordered close coordination with the ministry of chemicals and fertilisers to prevent any disruptions.
