Summer crop acreage rises by 2.52 lakh hectares over last year, with strong growth in pulses, maize and oilseeds signalling positive outlook for food supply chains

India’s summer crop sowing has reached 86.02 lakh hectares as of May 22, 2026, surpassing the corresponding period last year by 2.52 lakh hectares, according to data released by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare.

The latest figures indicate strong growth in pulses, Shree Anna (millets) and coarse cereals, as well as oilseeds, reflecting continued diversification in cropping patterns and increasing farmer interest in high-demand crops.

While rice acreage has witnessed a marginal decline compared to the same period last year, gains in pulses, maize and oilseeds have more than offset the reduction.

Key Highlights

• Total summer crop area reaches 86.02 lakh hectares
• Sown area up by 2.52 lakh hectares compared to last year
• Pulses acreage increases to 27.91 lakh hectares
• Shree Anna and coarse cereals area rises to 16.01 lakh hectares
• Oilseed cultivation expands to 11.04 lakh hectares
• Maize, groundnut and blackgram register significant growth
• Rice area records marginal decline of 1.36 lakh hectares

Summer Crop Coverage Expands Across Major Segments

According to official data, total summer crop coverage stood at 86.02 lakh hectares against 83.50 lakh hectares during the corresponding period of 2025.

Pulses Continue Strong Performance

Pulses recorded one of the strongest performances among major crop categories, with acreage increasing to 27.91 lakh hectares compared to 27.26 lakh hectares during the same period last year.

Within pulses:

• Greengram coverage reached 23.01 lakh hectares
• Blackgram acreage increased significantly to 4.60 lakh hectares from 3.58 lakh hectares last year
• Other pulse crops also registered modest growth

The rise in pulse cultivation aligns with the government’s continued emphasis on improving domestic protein availability and reducing import dependence.

Millets and Coarse Cereals Gain Momentum

Shree Anna (millets) and coarse cereals witnessed substantial expansion, with total acreage reaching 16.01 lakh hectares compared to 14.25 lakh hectares last year.

Growth was largely driven by:

• Maize: 10.00 lakh hectares (up from 8.50 lakh hectares)
• Bajra: 5.40 lakh hectares (up from 5.20 lakh hectares)
• Ragi: 0.22 lakh hectares (up from 0.16 lakh hectares)

The continued expansion reflects growing demand for climate-resilient and nutritionally rich grains.

Oilseeds Register Healthy Growth

Oilseed cultivation increased to 11.04 lakh hectares from 9.58 lakh hectares a year earlier.

Major contributors included:

• Groundnut: 5.51 lakh hectares (up from 4.20 lakh hectares)
• Sunflower: 0.39 lakh hectares
• Sesamum: 5.07 lakh hectares

Higher oilseed acreage is expected to support domestic edible oil production and reduce import dependence over the long term.

Rice Records Marginal Decline

Rice acreage stood at 31.05 lakh hectares compared to 32.42 lakh hectares during the corresponding period last year, registering a decline of 1.36 lakh hectares.

However, overall summer sowing remains higher due to increased cultivation of pulses, oilseeds and coarse cereals.

Agriculture Diversification Continues

The latest sowing trends suggest a gradual shift towards crop diversification, supported by:

• Government incentives for pulses and oilseeds
• Growing millet consumption
• Climate resilience considerations
• Improved market demand
• Rising awareness of nutritional crops

Agriculture experts note that higher acreage under pulses, millets and oilseeds could strengthen food security while supporting more sustainable farming systems.

Impact on Hospitality, Foodservice & Tourism Sector

The increase in acreage under pulses, millets, maize and oilseeds could have positive implications for India’s hospitality and foodservice industries. Greater production of millets and nutrient-rich grains supports the growing demand for wellness cuisine, regional food experiences and sustainable menus in hotels, resorts and restaurants. The continued expansion of Shree Anna crops aligns with the rising popularity of millet-based dishes across hospitality brands promoting healthy dining options. Higher oilseed and pulse production may also help stabilise raw material availability for food manufacturers, caterers and restaurant chains. Additionally, the growing focus on indigenous crops strengthens culinary tourism by encouraging the use of regional ingredients and traditional food cultures that are increasingly becoming part of destination-driven travel experiences across India.