Increase in Paddy Cultivation Area Despite Rainfall Deficit

01-Jul-2026 07:53 PM

New Delhi: Although a lack of rainfall is being observed in various parts of the country due to the sluggish pace and low intensity of the southwest monsoon—causing the sowing of most Kharif crops to lag significantly behind last year's figures—there has been a surprising increase in the area under paddy cultivation.

This is notable given that paddy requires more water than other crops; standing water in the fields is essential for its transplantation.

According to data from the Union Ministry of Agriculture, the total area under paddy cultivation for the current Kharif season reached 25.75 lakh hectares by June 25. This marks an increase of 4.30 lakh hectares over the 21.45 lakh hectares recorded during the same period last year.

However, considering that the total area cultivated during the Kharif season typically exceeds 400 lakh hectares, the current acreage remains quite low. Farmers are showing greater interest in paddy cultivation in regions that have received rainfall or where adequate irrigation facilities are available.