Weak Monsoon Leads to Decline in Kharif Crop Sowing in India
Weak Monsoon Leads to Decline in Kharif Crop Sowing in India
IN · Published Sep 12, 2026
India's total area sown under kharif crops has decreased compared to last year, primarily due to a weak and uneven monsoon.
As of 4 September 2026, the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare reported that kharif sowing stood at 1,086.31 lakh hectares, down 17.69 lakh hectares from the previous year's 1,104.00 lakh hectares.

Impact & Risks

The reduced sowing area for key crops, particularly rice, could impact food grain production and supply in India, potentially affecting domestic and global markets. States such as Karnataka, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, and Madhya Pradesh recorded significant declines in rice sowing, while Assam and Odisha showed gains. The uneven monsoon has also led to regional disparities in rainfall, with states like Meghalaya, Manipur, Bihar, and Andhra Pradesh experiencing deficits exceeding 30-40%. This variability may increase demand for specialised agricultural inputs to mitigate moisture stress and pest pressure, while overall bulk fertilizer demand may soften.

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