Monsoon rain boosts Kharif crop prospects in state

Indore: Consistent rainfall across western Madhya Pradesh since the arrival of southwest monsoon has significantly improved prospects for the kharif season, bringing relief to farmers after delayed sowing caused by a weak pre-monsoon phase.Agriculture experts say the timely rainfall in late June and the first week of July has restored soil moisture and helped compensate for the initial lag in sowing.Western districts, including Indore, Ujjain, Dhar, Khargone, Khandwa, Ratlam, Dewas and adjoining agricultural belts have received widespread rainfall over the past fortnight, creating favourable conditions for crop growth. Soybean, maize, sorghum (jowar), cotton, and pulses such as moong and urad are the major kharif crops cultivated across the region.Indore College of Agriculture assistant professor Anand Harshana said that the delayed onset of monsoon and poor pre-monsoon showers had initially affected sowing operations due to inadequate soil moisture. “However, since the monsoon arrived on June 24, rainfall has been sufficient, particularly during the last week of June and the first week of July. This rain has helped make up for the delayed sowing,” he said.

Harshana, however, cautioned that excessive rainfall could pose risks in low-lying areas. “Farmers should ensure proper drainage arrangements because prolonged waterlogging can damage newly germinated crops,” he added.Industry representatives also remain optimistic but say the coming weeks will be crucial. All India Dal Mill Association chairman , Suresh Agarwal, said that sowing has progressed well with adequate rainfall across most agricultural belts. “The present situation is encouraging, but the next 15 to 20 days will determine the overall crop outlook. If rainfall remains well distributed, it will benefit the crops. Excessive rainfall may adversely affect crop growth,” he said.Madhya Pradesh is the country’s largest soybean-producing state, and favourable monsoon conditions in western districts are expected to play a key role in determining the state’s overall kharif output this season.