India’s agricultural sector has received a positive boost ahead of the Kharif season, as summer crop sowing has crossed 8.6 million hectares across the country. According to the latest data released by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, total summer crop coverage reached 8.602 million hectares by May 22, 2026, registering an increase of 0.252 million hectares compared to 8.35 million hectares during the same period last year.
Agriculture experts believe that improved irrigation facilities, better farming practices, and rising market demand are encouraging farmers to diversify crops and shift toward more profitable cultivation patterns.
Government figures show that rice cultivation has witnessed a marginal decline this season. The total rice sowing area stood at 3.105 million hectares, compared to 3.242 million hectares during the same period last year, reflecting a decline of nearly 0.136 million hectares. However, the reduction in rice acreage has been compensated by significant growth in pulses, oilseeds, and coarse cereals (Shri Anna). Agricultural analysts say farmers are increasingly opting for crops that require less water and offer better returns amid changing climatic conditions.
Pulse sowing has shown encouraging growth this season. The total area under pulses reached 2.791 million hectares, which is 0.065 million hectares higher than last year. Among pulse crops, urad (black gram) recorded the strongest increase, with acreage expanding by nearly 0.102 million hectares. Although moong cultivation witnessed a slight dip, the overall pulse sector continues to maintain a positive trend. Experts say rising domestic demand and favorable market prices are motivating farmers to expand pulse cultivation.
The cultivation of coarse cereals, popularly promoted as Shri Anna, has registered notable expansion this year. Total acreage under coarse grains reached 1.601 million hectares, up by 0.177 million hectares compared to last year. Maize emerged as the biggest gainer, with cultivation area touching nearly 1 million hectares — an increase of about 0.15 million hectares over the previous season. Bajra and jowar also recorded moderate growth. Agriculture experts believe that increasing consumer demand for nutritious grains and government support for millets are playing a major role in encouraging farmers to adopt these crops.
Oilseed crops have also witnessed a sharp increase in acreage this season. The total area under oilseeds reached 1.104 million hectares, registering an increase of 0.147 million hectares over last year. Groundnut cultivation recorded the highest growth among oilseeds, with acreage increasing by nearly 0.131 million hectares. Sunflower and sesame cultivation also posted marginal gains. Experts attribute this trend to rising edible oil demand and better market prices for oilseed crops.
Crop Diversification Trend Becoming More Visible:
Agricultural experts believe the latest sowing figures clearly indicate a changing crop pattern in Indian farming. Farmers are increasingly focusing on alternative crops that offer lower cultivation costs, better market demand, and improved profitability. If weather conditions remain favorable and farmers continue receiving timely irrigation, fertilizers, and technical support, the country could witness strong summer crop production this season. Experts say this may not only improve farm incomes but also strengthen India’s food and nutritional security in the coming months.
FAQs:
1. What is the total summer crop sowing area in India for 2026?
The total summer crop sowing area reached 8.602 million hectares by May 22, 2026.
2. Which crop recorded the highest increase in pulse cultivation?
Urad (black gram) recorded the highest increase in pulse cultivation this season.
3. Why are farmers shifting toward maize and millet crops?
Farmers are adopting maize and millets due to lower water requirements, better profits, and rising demand for nutritious grains.
4. Which oilseed crop showed maximum growth in 2026?
Groundnut cultivation registered the highest growth among oilseed crops.
5. What factors are driving Summer Crop Sowing 2026 growth?
Improved irrigation, better farming methods, government support, and favorable market prices are driving the growth in summer crop sowing.
