Jaipur: Rabi crops, including barley and pulses, have exceeded the sowing targets set by the agriculture department, while other crops have achieved 90% of their targets as of Dec 9. Farmers, buoyed by favourable monsoon conditions and soil moisture, anticipate a robust harvest in March 2025.
Data released by the agriculture department revealed that the sowing area for most Rabi crops has not only met targets but is likely to surpass them. “The targeted sowing area of almost every crop has increased this year compared to 2023. So far, 90% of the total targeted area has been sown, and by Dec 15, it is expected to be fully achieved,” said an official.
Barley has seen a notable rise in sowing, with 40.71 lakh hectare covered against a target of 38 lakh hectare. This is an increase from the 39.33 lakh hectare sown in 2023.
“If the last week of Dec and the first week of Jan bring rainfall, we can anticipate a good barley harvest,” an official added.
Farmers like Netram Saini from Jaisinghpura Khor have also shifted focus to barley due to increasing demand for multi-grain flour. “With good soil moisture in mid-Oct, I expanded my barley sowing compared to wheat,” he said.
Similarly, Rabi pulses have outperformed expectations, with 40.91 lakh hectare sown against a target of 37 lakh hectare, marking an 11% increase. Officials are optimistic about a strong yield this season.
Farmers are now looking forward to Mavath, the winter rainfall expected in mid-Dec and early Jan, which is crucial for Rabi crop growth. “Mavath plays a vital role in the development of seeds into plants, ensuring a healthy yield,” an official said.