The Union Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare conducted a comprehensive review meeting chaired by Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan to assess Kharif crop sowing progress, monsoon conditions, El Niño impact, and input availability. The meeting focused on 270 sensitive districts identified for rainfall deficiency monitoring and agricultural management.
As of July 17, 2026, total Kharif sowing area reached 658.19 lakh hectares nationwide, showing a decrease compared to the previous year but demonstrating positive progress in paddy, pulses, and other crops across many states. The South-West Monsoon covered the entire country by July 9, 2026, completing its expansion just one day after the normal date of July 8, creating favorable conditions for Kharif sowing in most states.
Critical rainfall data revealed a significant nationwide deficit during June 1 to July 15, 2026, with actual rainfall of 227 mm against a normal of 294.2 mm, representing a 23% deficiency. Regional breakdown shows East and Northeast India suffered the highest deficit at 36% (348 mm actual vs 540.2 mm normal), followed by Southern Peninsular India at 26% deficiency, Northwest India at 19%, and Central India at 13% below normal rainfall.
The review confirmed adequate availability of fertilizers, particularly urea, and seeds for Kharif 2026, with continuous supply monitoring through state coordination. Minister Chouhan directed officials to obtain ground-level situation reports through Krishi Vigyan Kendras and state governments, ensuring farmers receive fertilizers according to requirements and addressing any distribution system shortages promptly.
Weekly review meetings by pulses, oilseeds, and cotton missions with state governments were mandated for quick action based on field feedback. The ministry emphasized continuous monitoring of agricultural activities through scientific advice, weather-based agricultural management, and effective scheme implementation, reaffirming the government's commitment to protecting farmer interests and increasing agricultural production.