# Kharif sowing 2.9% behind last year; oilseeds acreage up 3%

2026-08-07T09:57:14+00:00 | Business & Economy | Indian Opinion Desk

Corroboration: 1 independent outlet

As of July 31, kharif sowing covered 894 lakh hectares, down 2.9% from 920 lakh hectares a year ago, according to agriculture ministry data reported by Livemint. The Hindu Business Line reports that oilseeds acreage has risen 3% to 180.20 lakh hectares, driven by good July rains, and may reach the government's target of 206.45 lakh hectares. Rice, pulses, coarse cereals, and cotton lagged, while oilseeds and sugarcane improved. Castorseed area fell 23% in Gujarat. AK Singh of IARI said favourable rains could help rice, maize, and moongbean catch up. July rainfall was 1% above normal after a 35% deficit in June.

## Coverage

- livemint.com <https://www.livemint.com/industry/agriculture/kharif-crop-sowing-monsoon-rainfall-india-11785734195965.html>
- thehindubusinessline.com <https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/economy/agri-business/indias-oilseeds-acreage-rises-3-on-good-rains-may-attain-govt-coverage-target/article71317989.ece>

Tags: agriculture, crops, kharif sowing, Monsoon, rural economy
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