Andhra rabi sowing surges

Rabi crop sowing in Andhra Pradesh has surged sharply, with total acreage rising 47% year-on-year to 2.76 million hectares as of Wednesday, surpassing the normal seasonal level of 2.07 million hectares, according to the state agriculture department. 

Key crops recorded strong gains. Paddy acreage increased to 919,000 hectares from 672,000 hectares last year, while maize jumped significantly to 502,000 hectares from 186,000 hectares. Jowar area also rose to 115,000 hectares. 

Pulses witnessed robust expansion, with total acreage reaching 920,000 hectares against 729,000 hectares a year ago. Chana, urad and moong all recorded higher sowing. Oilseeds acreage climbed to 137,000 hectares, led by groundnut and sesame. Cotton area also rose sharply, though tobacco acreage saw a marginal decline.