New Delhi, Oct 13 (NationPress) Union Minister for Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare Shivraj Singh Chouhan presided over a crucial meeting on Monday to evaluate the progress within the agriculture sector.

Officials briefed the minister that the outlook for the agricultural sector is quite optimistic, as the area sown with kharif crops has seen an increase due to favorable monsoon conditions. Furthermore, water reservoir levels nationwide have risen, promising improved irrigation facilities and enhanced crop yields moving forward.

Additionally, the government’s rice and wheat reserves surpass the buffer stock requirements, aiding in stabilizing prices.

The meeting provided a thorough review of kharif crop conditions, the readiness for rabi sowing, the situation in flood-affected areas, prevailing price trends, fertiliser availability, and reservoir storage levels. During this assembly, the Union Minister also directed relevant officials accordingly.

Chouhan was informed that the total area dedicated to kharif crops has increased by 6.51 lakh hectares compared to the previous year. The current sown area stands at 1,121.46 lakh hectares, compared to 1,114.95 lakh hectares in 2024–25. The meeting observed growth in the sowing of major crops such as wheat, paddy, maize, sugarcane, and pulses compared to last year. Moreover, the area under urad (black gram) cultivation has surged by 1.50 lakh hectares, rising from 22.87 lakh hectares in 2024–25 to 24.37 lakh hectares in 2025–26.

The Union Minister also assessed the conditions in flood-affected regions. Chouhan, who recently visited districts impacted by floods and landslides in various states, was informed that while excessive rainfall has harmed crops in some areas, other regions have thrived due to a good monsoon, which is expected to enhance rabi sowing and overall production.

Officials further notified the minister that the sowing of tomatoes and onions is proceeding smoothly. The area under onion cultivation has grown from 3.62 lakh hectares in 2024–25 to 3.91 lakh hectares currently, while potato cultivation has expanded from 0.35 lakh hectares to 0.43 lakh hectares. Similarly, tomato sowing has increased from 1.86 lakh hectares during the same period last year to 2.37 lakh hectares this year. The meeting acknowledged that the sowing of potatoes, onions, and tomatoes has advanced well according to set targets.

Officials also updated the minister that current rice and wheat stock levels exceed the mandated buffer norms, indicating a stable supply situation.

Regarding water availability, Chouhan was informed that reservoir storage levels across the nation are considerably better than last year and the average of the past decade. Presently, the 161 major reservoirs hold 103.51% of last year’s storage and 115% of the ten-year average storage, reflecting a promising outlook for agricultural productivity.

Chouhan also assessed fertiliser availability and instructed officials to guarantee a smooth and timely supply in the upcoming months. He emphasized the importance of maintaining close coordination with the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilisers to prevent any disruptions. Officials informed the Union Minister that ongoing coordination is being maintained with states to evaluate and satisfy fertiliser needs for the forthcoming agricultural season.