Rice sown in 18.7 lakh hectare, sugarcane in 51.52 l.ha so far

Many States have reported progress in sowing of Kharif crops. As per the preliminary data received so far, rice has been sown in 18.7 lakh hectare. It is reported that planting has been slightly delayed but nursery preparation under irrigated conditions is in progress.

Sugarcane has been planted in 51.52 l.ha, cotton in 21 l.ha, coarse cereals in 5.59 l.ha and oilseeds in 3.13 l.ha.

Sugarcane has been planted in 1.38 l.ha. more than that in 2011-12. On the other hand, less sowing has been reported in the case of other crops as compared to this time last year.