Andhra Pradesh Kharif Crop Acreage Rises Amid Early Rainfall And Water Supply
Andhra Pradesh is witnessing an accelerated pace in Kharif crop sowing this season, with a notable rise of 1.51 lakh acres compared to the same time last year. Buoyed by timely monsoon showers and sufficient irrigation water, farmers across the state began agricultural operations ahead of schedule, increasing coverage particularly for paddy, cotton, and pulses.
According to official data, the state aims to cultivate 34.53 lakh hectares this Kharif season, of which around 31.16 lakh hectares typically come under actual cultivation. As of the second week of July, sowing activity has commenced on 5.12 lakh hectares—nearly 16% of the season’s target. This marks a considerable improvement over the 4.51 lakh hectares reported during the corresponding period last year. Paddy remains the dominant crop, accounting for 2.07 lakh hectares of the sown area, followed closely by cotton at 1.64 lakh hectares. The state’s Kharif portfolio includes 21 major crops ranging from cereals such as maize and jowar, to pulses like green gram and black gram, and oilseeds such as groundnut and sunflower. Commercial crops like sugarcane and tobacco also contribute to the seasonal output.
Nellore district has shown an unprecedented 202% jump in paddy cultivation, sowing across 79,353 hectares compared to the usual 39,368 hectares. Srikakulam, Tirupati, East Godavari, and Krishna districts have also demonstrated robust sowing progress, indicating strong farmer engagement across diverse agro-climatic zones. Officials attribute the favourable sowing conditions to improved rainfall distribution and sustained water availability from irrigation projects. As the season continues through September, agricultural planners remain optimistic about achieving near-complete coverage. The surge in acreage is also seen as a positive signal for food security and rural economic recovery, particularly amid climate uncertainties.
The early start to Kharif sowing reinforces the need for sustained investment in agro-climatic planning, water efficiency technologies, and decentralised crop advisory systems to build a resilient and equitable agri-ecosystem across Andhra Pradesh.
