However, despite the existing deficits, monsoon activity has strengthened in recent weeks, with improved rainfall across several regions. “If sustained, this trend is expected to gradually narrow the seasonal shortfall,” the report stated. At the same time, the study highlighted India’s kharif sowing is still below last year’s level. As of July 5 2026, kharif sowing was at 35.1 million hectares, down 20.8 percent YoY from 44.3 million hectares in the corresponding period last year. Experts believe this was mainly due to deficient rainfall in major kharif-producing states. Among key crops, rice, pulses, and coarse cereals witnessed the sharpest decline in acreage, while sugarcane, jute, and mesta maintained relatively better sowing coverage.
