Rabi Sowing Surges Past 306 Lakh Hectares, Driven by Strong Wheat, Pulses and Oilseed Coverage

Timely rains, better soil moisture and favourable conditions boost nationwide planting momentum

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India’s Rabi sowing progress has crossed 306 lakh hectares, marking a strong start to the 2025–26 season, according to the latest data released by the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare. The current acreage represents a 33.53 lakh hectare increase over the 272.78 lakh hectares recorded during the same period last year.

Wheat Leads the Expansion

Wheat—the most crucial Rabi crop—has seen a sharp jump in planting:

Wheat area: 128.37 lakh ha
(vs 107.09 lakh ha last year)

The rise reflects timely sowing supported by favourable soil moisture and a robust monsoon withdrawal pattern.

Pulses and Oilseeds Also Show Strong Gains

Pulses:

Area up to 73.36 lakh ha
(from 68.15 lakh ha last year)

Growth driven mainly by gram (chana) and lentils, key dietary protein sources

Oilseeds:

Total oilseed coverage: 76.64 lakh ha

Rapeseed & mustard leading with a massive 79.17 lakh ha

The oilseed segment continues to benefit from strong market prices and higher minimum support prices (MSP).

Shri Anna (Millets) & Coarse Cereals Gain Traction

The area under Shri Anna and coarse cereals has touched 19.69 lakh hectares, with maize expanding the fastest. Coverage has also increased for jowar, barley and small millets, reflecting shifting food and fodder demand.

Rice and Other Crops Maintain Steady Pace

• Rice: 8.26 lakh ha
• Additional sowing progress noted across barley, small millets and other cereals

Stronger Start to the Season

The Ministry noted that several factors have boosted the sowing pace:

• Ample soil moisture from October–November rains
• High reservoir levels
• Attractive MSP for key crops
• Early arrival of winter in some regions aiding wheat planting

Officials said that monitoring will continue, especially in states where sowing is progressing slower than expected.

With over 306.31 lakh hectares already sown and more weeks ahead, the Rabi season is shaping up favourably—setting the stage for a strong production year if weather conditions remain supportive.