As of July 26, 2024, the Ministry of Agriculture reports notable progress in Kharif oilseed sowing. Soybean cultivation went up and reached 121.72 lakh hectares, a 4% rise from last year’s 116.99 lakh hectares. Groundnut sowing also recorded an increase and went up by 14% to 41.03 lakh hectares. However, Sesamum acreage dropped by 18% to 7.32 lakh hectares. Sunflower sowing has expanded by 33% to 0.6 lakh hectares, while Niger has seen new planting at 0.22 lakh hectares. Castor sowing has declined significantly, down to 0.72 lakh hectares, a 74% reduction. Overall, total oilseed acreage for the Kharif season stands at 171.64 lakh hectares, reflecting a 4% increase from last year owing to conducive weather conditions.