NEW DELHI, Jan 28: Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan conducted a review on Tuesday regarding the progress of rabi crop sowing, with a particular focus on wheat. He emphasized the need for “dynamic” procurement methods through government agencies to maximize benefits for farmers.
During a meeting with senior officials from the ministry, Chouhan also addressed the necessary preparations for ensuring an adequate supply of fertilizers and seeds ahead of the upcoming Kharif season, which begins in July.
“The minister stressed that the procurement of produce should remain adaptable and dynamic, alongside the effective implementation of the procurement system by the government,” according to an official statement.
So far in the rabi (winter) season of the 2024-25 crop year (July-June), wheat and other crops have been sown across 655.88 lakh hectares, an increase from 643.72 lakh hectares during the same period last year, based on ministry statistics.
While the sowing of key rabi crops has been completed, there is still time to sow onions, potatoes, and tomatoes.
Officials reported during the meeting that onions have been sown on 11.47 lakh hectares, potatoes on 21.47 lakh hectares, and tomatoes on 5.83 lakh hectares in this rabi session.
“There is still an opportunity for sowing all three crops. Given the current favorable market prices, it is anticipated that normal areas will be achieved,” the statement indicated. (PTI)
