Significant Increase in Maize and Barley Sowing

28-Jan-2026 01:44 PM

New Delhi: Although the area under jowar (sorghum) cultivation decreased by approximately 1.20 lakh hectares during the current Rabi season compared to last year, the total area under coarse grains increased by 3.25 lakh hectares,

from 57.45 lakh hectares to 60.70 lakh hectares, due to an increase of 2.85 lakh hectares in maize cultivation, 1.30 lakh hectares in barley, and 27,000 hectares in ragi (finger millet). The sowing process is almost complete.

According to official figures, the area under jowar cultivation in the Rabi season last year was 24.22 lakh hectares, which has decreased to 23.01 lakh hectares in the current season. On the other hand, during the same period,

the area under maize cultivation increased from 26.21 lakh hectares to 29.05 lakh hectares, barley from 6.08 lakh hectares to 7.37 lakh hectares, and ragi from 70,000 hectares to 97,000 hectares.

In addition, small millets were also cultivated in a limited area. The above data is as of January 23. Farmers showed good interest in sowing maize and barley.

With normal weather conditions in the major producing states, crop progress is proceeding smoothly, and improved production is expected. Recent rains in some states are likely to benefit the crops.