India has recorded significant progress in rabi crop sowing during the current season. According to the latest data released by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, the total area under rabi crops has reached 64.429 million hectares as of January 9, 2026. This is 1.765 million hectares higher than the corresponding period last year, reflecting a stable and positive outlook for the rabi season.
Wheat, the principal rabi crop, has shown a notable increase in acreage. The area under wheat has expanded to 33.417 million hectares, compared to 32.804 million hectares during the same period last year. This marks an increase of 0.613 million hectares, indicating strong farmer confidence supported by favourable weather conditions.
The total area under pulses has increased by 0.374 million hectares. Among pulses, gram (chickpea) has registered the most significant rise, with sowing reaching 9.588 million hectares, up by 0.466 million hectares from last year. Lentil and a few other pulse crops have also recorded marginal gains.
Oilseed crops have also shown encouraging growth. The total oilseeds area now stands at 9.686 million hectares, an increase of 0.353 million hectares over the previous year. Rapeseed and mustard together account for 8.936 million hectares, registering a growth of 0.279 million hectares. Crops such as linseed, safflower, and sunflower have also seen limited but positive expansion.
The area under nutri-cereals and coarse grains has reached 5.520 million hectares, showing an increase of 0.203 million hectares compared to last year. While maize and barley have recorded higher sowing, a slight decline has been observed in the area under jowar.
Overall Rabi Season Outlook Remains Strong: According to the Agriculture Ministry, sowing during the Rabi 2025–26 season has remained balanced and encouraging across major food grains, pulses, and oilseeds. The expanded coverage suggests improved production prospects in the coming months. Experts believe that if weather conditions remain favourable, overall rabi output this season is likely to remain strong.
Q1. What is the total area under rabi crops this season?
As of January 9, 2026, rabi crops cover 64.429 million hectares.
Q2. Which rabi crop has seen the highest increase in area?
Wheat has recorded the highest increase with an additional 0.613 million hectares.
Q3. How has gram (chickpea) performed this season?
Gram sowing rose sharply to 9.588 million hectares, up by 0.466 million hectares.
Q4. Are oilseeds showing growth in rabi 2025–26?
Yes, oilseeds area increased by 0.353 million hectares, led by rapeseed and mustard.
Q5. What is the overall outlook for the rabi season?
The outlook remains positive, and experts expect strong production if weather stays favourable.
