Rains in some parts to boost prospects of rabi crops: Govt

NEW DELHI: Higher temperatures seen in past few weeks will not impact rabi crops like wheat, government said today, adding that rains in some parts of the country are expected to boost the production prospects.

There is a stable temperature since last week and the Met Department has projected possibility of rainfall in many parts of the country in the coming week.

Sowing of rabi (winter) crops like wheat began from October and is almost coming to an end. The rabi crops have been under pressure due to dry winter following two consecutive drought years, raising concerns over production.

"During the second fortnight of December and by January 10, the temperature in some states in north India generally has been 2-3 degree centigrade more.

"However, since previous week, the temperature has been stable. Therefore, the earlier enhanced temperature will not cast any adverse effect on the crops," Agriculture Ministry said in a statement.

There were rains in some parts of Madhya Pradesh, Chattisgarh and eastern Uttar Pradesh, which will pave better way for rabi crops, it added.

The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast some spell of rains in many north and northeastern parts of the country in the coming week, which would have better impact on rabi crops.

The ministry, which released weekly sowing data of rabi crops today, also reviewed the impact of seasonal temperatures on such crops.