Has Cotton and Groundnut Cultivation Surpassed 20 Lakh Hectares in Gujarat?
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Synopsis
Gujarat has hit a significant milestone in agriculture with cotton and groundnut cultivation surpassing 20 lakh hectares. This achievement reflects the state's agricultural potential and the resilience of its farmers, driven by favorable weather conditions. Discover how this impacts the local economy and the livelihoods of millions, as the state continues to lead in these crucial crops.
Key Takeaways
- Cotton and Groundnut: Over 20 lakh hectares each.
- Monsoon Impact: Favorable conditions have boosted kharif sowing.
- Groundnut Growth: 15% rise compared to previous year.
- Oilseeds Cultivation: 24.25 lakh hectares sown.
- Agricultural Dependency: Over 50% of population relies on agriculture.
Ahmedabad, July 30 (NationPress) Gujarat has achieved a remarkable milestone, with cotton and groundnut cultivation spanning over 20 lakh hectares each, establishing them as the most extensively cultivated crops in the region.
As per Agriculture Minister Raghavji Patel, the favorable and well-timed monsoon across Saurashtra, Kutch, and North Gujarat has invigorated farmers, leading to kharif sowing that has already reached nearly 66 lakh hectares, which is over 77 percent of the state’s average kharif coverage of 85 lakh hectares.
Groundnut cultivation has particularly witnessed a consistent annual growth, with a 15 percent increase in area compared to the previous year. As of July 30, groundnut sowing has achieved 115 percent of the typical coverage, with further growth anticipated in the following weeks. A total of oilseeds has been cultivated over 24.25 lakh hectares, an increase of more than 1 lakh hectares from the last year.
Other crops, including cereals, have been planted across 9.79 lakh hectares, pulses over 2.52 lakh hectares, and fodder crops exceeding 6.46 lakh hectares so far this season.
The minister emphasized that Gujarat is at the forefront of both cotton and groundnut production in the country, with cotton consistently leading as the most sown crop each kharif season, followed closely by groundnut.
Farmers across the state have also cultivated castor, sesame, soybean, paddy, and jowar in sizable areas. With additional rainfall expected, the government anticipates a continued increase in kharif sowing in the upcoming days. Currently, over 50 percent of Gujarat's population relies directly or indirectly on agriculture and related activities for their livelihoods.
The state is home to approximately 68 lakh rural households, with around 43-45 lakh households involved in farming, either as cultivators or agricultural laborers.
According to the Agriculture Census 2015-16 (the most recent comprehensive national data), Gujarat features over 56 lakh operational land holdings, with a substantial portion—almost 70 percent—being marginal and small farmers owning less than 2 hectares of land.
Gujarat's agricultural landscape is diverse, with significant crops including cotton, groundnut, castor, bajra, wheat, cumin, and various vegetables.
Despite facing challenges like unpredictable rainfall and water scarcity, Gujarat has emerged as a pioneer in agricultural innovations like drip irrigation and maintains a strong focus on horticulture and dairy farming.
The regions of Saurashtra, North Gujarat, and Kutch have a notably high concentration of farming communities.
Point of View
It is clear that Gujarat's agricultural sector is not only a backbone of the state's economy but also a vital source of livelihood for millions. The significant rise in cotton and groundnut cultivation showcases the resilience and dedication of farmers amidst challenges. Such milestones highlight the importance of supporting agricultural innovations and addressing environmental concerns to secure a sustainable future.
NationPress
31/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current area of cotton and groundnut cultivation in Gujarat?
As of now, cotton and groundnut cultivation in Gujarat has surpassed 20 lakh hectares each, making them the most widely sown crops in the state.
How has the monsoon affected crop sowing in Gujarat?
The favorable and timely monsoon has positively influenced farmers' enthusiasm, leading to kharif sowing reaching over 66 lakh hectares, which is more than 77 percent of the state's average total kharif coverage.
What is the trend in groundnut cultivation this year?
Groundnut cultivation has shown a steady increase, with a 15 percent rise in area compared to last year and achieving 115 percent of the usual coverage as of July 30.
What percentage of Gujarat's population is dependent on agriculture?
Over 50 percent of Gujarat's population is directly or indirectly reliant on agriculture and allied activities for their livelihoods.
What are the key agricultural innovations in Gujarat?
Gujarat has emerged as a leader in agricultural innovations such as drip irrigation, alongside a strong focus on horticulture and dairy farming.
