Despite uptick in July rainfall, Kharif sowing remains below 2025 levels

Kharif sowing in India reached 105.2 million hectares as of Friday, 3.6% lower than last year, despite improved July rainfall.

India Meteorological Department (IMD) warned of below-normal rainfall in August-September due to strengthening El Nino conditions.

Cumulative rainfall from June 1 to July 31 was 13% below the long-period average, with deficits in eastern and northeastern India (~30%) and south India (~25%).

Paddy sowing fell 2.2% to 30.15 million hectares, with declines in Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, Odisha, Haryana, Telangana, and Uttar Pradesh.

Coarse cereal sowing dropped 7.6% year-on-year, and pulses acreage fell 6.4%, though urad sowing rose 10.6%.