November Weather Crucial for Rabi Crop Sowing

New Delhi. The acreage for several key Rabi crops is significantly trailing behind last year’s figures, prompting the central government to initiate the development of contingency plans for 225 districts across the country.

Agricultural experts state that the weather during the current month (November) will be critical for the sowing and development of Rabi crops.

Favorable rainfall and lower temperatures could accelerate the sowing process; conversely, in drought-affected states like Maharashtra and Karnataka, farmers may face substantial difficulties in sowing crops such as chickpeas (gram).

The Director General of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) notes that weather conditions are highly dynamic. Northern and Western India are experiencing deficient rainfall alongside higher-than-normal temperatures.

Contingency plans are being formulated at the district level to facilitate the sowing of alternative crops. The current status of Rabi crop sowing is not satisfactory.

Typically, the bulk of mustard and chickpea sowing is completed by November 30; however, the pace is currently quite sluggish. Temperatures are declining gradually. The government is closely monitoring the entire situation.