Groundnut and Soybean are the major contributors to India’s edible oil production.
Delayed, deficient, or erratic monsoons can lead to widespread drought, destroying young seedlings and wiping out investments.
“Yes,” said Bauji, leading her to a clay pot filled with plump, white seeds. “These are cotton seeds. And over there,” he pointed to a sack of long, green paddy grains, “is rice. These, and their cousins—millet, maize, groundnut, and soyabean—are called Kharif crops.” what is kharif crop
While the general timeframe remains consistent, exact sowing and harvesting times vary depending on the geography. For example, in the southern Indian states like Kerala and Tamil Nadu, seeds may be sown as early as late May, whereas in northern regions like Punjab and Haryana, sowing usually occurs in June. Major Kharif Crops List
: Sown in June (start of monsoon) and harvested in October/November . Groundnut and Soybean are the major contributors to
Cotton is a major Kharif cash crop. It needs 6 to 8 months of warm weather and plenty of sunshine after the initial rains. The monsoon provides the necessary soil moisture for the plant to develop bolls.
While Kharif crops are grown nationwide, certain states are the "breadbaskets" for specific monsoon crops. “These are cotton seeds
The high humidity of the monsoon is a breeding ground for various agricultural pests.
Known as the "Queen of Cereals," maize is highly adaptable but thrives best in the warm Kharif weather. It requires well-drained fertile soils and moderate, well-distributed rainfall.
Understanding the distinction between India's two primary agricultural seasons is crucial for grasping how food production is sustained year-round. Kharif Crops Rabi Crops Monsoon / Summer Winter / Spring Sowing Time June – July October – November Harvesting Time September – October March – April Water Source Rainwater (Monsoon) Irrigation / Western Disturbances Examples Rice, Maize, Cotton, Soybean Wheat, Barley, Mustard, Peas Economic Challenges and Modern Innovations
The timing of Kharif cultivation is precise and varies slightly depending on the region: