Mon Sep 09 15:24:35 UTC 2024: ## Kharif Sowing Up 2.2% Despite Flood Concerns
**New Delhi:** India’s kharif sowing has reached a record 1,092.33 lakh hectares as of September 6, exceeding last year’s figure by 2.2%, the Agriculture Ministry reported on Monday. However, recent floods in Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Gujarat have caused some crop damage, potentially impacting yield despite the increased acreage.
The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted above-normal rainfall in September, which could further affect crop yields. Paddy sowing, specifically, is currently ahead of last year’s level, with an increase of 4% at 409.50 lakh hectares. However, officials have noted a technical error in the previous week’s data, suggesting the current paddy area may be closer to last year’s levels.
Other notable increases include pulses, up by 7.5% to 126.20 lakh hectares, and oilseeds, up 1.6% to 192.40 lakh hectares. Industry leaders have expressed optimism about the soyabean harvest, with most sowing already completed.
The area under maize and “Shree Anna” (nutri cereals) has also increased, while bajra sowing remains slightly behind last year’s figures. Sugarcane sowing is complete and has increased marginally, but cotton and jute-mesta acreage continues to lag behind.
Despite the positive sowing figures, concerns remain about the potential impact of floods and heavy rainfall on crop yields. The Agriculture Ministry is expected to announce the first estimate of kharif crop production later this month.
Meanwhile, the country’s water storage levels are at a comfortable 81% capacity, with at least 25 major reservoirs filled to capacity. This positive news provides some reassurance amidst the ongoing concerns regarding the impact of weather on agricultural output.
First Piper 