Soybean Sowing Area Crosses 10 Million Hectares

09-Jul-2026 08:09 PM

Indore: A press release issued by the Soybean Processors Association of India (SOPA)—a key body representing the domestic edible oil industry and trade—states that the soybean sowing area across the country's major producing states has reached 10.03 million hectares (100.3 lakh hectares) during the current Kharif season; this represents 80–90 percent of the targeted acreage. This sowing figure is based on a rapid survey conducted by SOPA.

SOPA's figure for the soybean sowing area is significantly higher than government data. According to SOPA, data from the Union Ministry of Agriculture lags by 7 to 10 days, which explains the discrepancy between the two sets of figures. Government data indicates that the total soybean sowing area at the national level has currently reached 5.7 million hectares (57 lakh hectares).

SOPA's release notes that soybean sowing commenced later this year compared to last year due to the delayed arrival of the southwest monsoon.

The sowing process is expected to be completed by July 15, provided weather and monsoon conditions remain favorable. Currently, the condition of the soybean crop in all major producing regions is normal or satisfactory.

Early-sown crops are sprouting new leaves, and the plants have entered the vegetative growth stage. Farmers are now engaged in weeding operations and are applying fertilizers and pesticides.

The major producing states covered in the survey of soybean sowing areas include Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Telangana, Karnataka, Chhattisgarh, and Gujarat.