Crops And Rabi Crops [updated] — Kharif

Rabi is considered the “safety net” of Indian agriculture. Because it relies on irrigation (canals, tubewells) rather than direct rainfall, it is less volatile. The cool winter suppresses pests and diseases. Consequently, Rabi contributes disproportionately to national granaries; India produces more wheat in Rabi than rice in Kharif.

While Kharif and Rabi are the two main seasons, there is a short, intermediate cropping season known as .

India is naturally divided into two major cropping zones: kharif crops and rabi crops

Wheat is the most prominent Rabi crop, acting as the second staple food grain after rice. The Green Revolution in India largely focused on increasing the yield of Rabi crops like wheat.

The Kharif season is high-risk due to its dependence on the erratic monsoon. A delayed onset causes drought; excessive rainfall leads to floods; a premature withdrawal damages the ripening crop. For example, a deficit in the June-September rainfall directly triggers a fall in rice production, spiking food inflation. Rabi is considered the “safety net” of Indian

June to July (at the onset of the Southwest monsoon). Harvesting Season: September to October.

The most important Kharif crop, requiring flooded fields. Maize: Known as the "queen of cereals." The Green Revolution in India largely focused on

* Product Details. ISBN-13: 9788120350564. Publisher: PHI Learning. Publication date: 05/01/2015. Sold by: Barnes & Noble. Format: Barnes & Noble WFP India Food Security Bulletin

The success of the crop is often a barometer for the Indian economy. A "good monsoon" means high Kharif yields, which lowers food inflation and boosts rural spending power.

Between Rabi and Kharif lies a short summer season called (April-June). Crops grown here require warm weather and artificial irrigation. Examples include watermelon, cucumber, muskmelon, and fodder crops . Zaid ensures year-round land utilization and income for farmers.