The sowing situation for Rabi crops in Madhya Pradesh is largely normal, though wheat sowing lags behind compared to last year. As of November 8, 2024, the area under wheat sowing in the state was about 10.56 lakh hectares, which is significantly lower than the 26.58 lakh hectares covered by the same date last year. The target for wheat sowing this season is 91.86 lakh hectares, indicating a considerable shortfall so far. However, it is expected that data from some areas may be delayed, and sowing activity may pick up.

In contrast, sowing for other Rabi crops is progressing well. For instance, sowing of pulses such as gram, peas, and lentils, as well as mustard, is underway, with progress reported in line with targets. By November 8, sowing had been completed in 5.07 lakh hectares for gram, 1.13 lakh hectares for peas, 2.80 lakh hectares for lentils, and 7.64 lakh hectares for mustard.

As the Kharif crop harvest begins and fields become vacant, there is potential for farmers to accelerate Rabi crop sowing. Additionally, favorable weather conditions, including adequate soil moisture, are supporting the sowing process. Furthermore, the rise in wholesale wheat prices could incentivize farmers to increase their wheat sowing area as the season progresses.