Need for Close Monitoring of Rabi Crop Sowing

New Delhi. Following a slight decline in the acreage of Kharif crops, attention has now shifted to the sowing of Rabi crops. In particular, the cultivation of wheat, chickpea (gram), lentil, and mustard is being closely monitored. Although the area under these crops is showing a healthy increase each week, the total acreage still lags significantly behind that of the previous year.

In some states, a lack of rainfall has led to severe drought conditions, resulting in a very slow pace of Rabi crop sowing. In other major producing states as well, cultivation is being affected by various factors. While the acreage for wheat and lentil has reached levels comparable to last year, the area under chickpea and mustard remains well behind—a cause for concern.

Wholesale market prices for mustard and chickpea are currently well above the Minimum Support Price (MSP), offering farmers attractive returns. It is anticipated that the area under cultivation for both these key crops will increase, and sowing conditions are expected to improve in the coming period. November 30 is generally considered the ideal time for sowing pulses and oilseeds, while the sowing window for wheat and barley may extend further. This situation warrants close observation.