Dharwad Farmers Set for Kharif Sowing Amid Plentiful Pre-Monsoon Rains

Dharwad: With favorable pre-monsoon showers in the second and third weeks of May, farmers across Dharwad district are preparing their fields for the Kharif sowing season. Although waiting for the rains to subside slightly, cultivators are optimistic, thanks to the early arrival of the southwest monsoon in Kerala—eight days ahead of schedule—and its expected early onset in Karnataka.

Dharwad has already received 217 mm of rainfall, far above the usual 105 mm for this period, creating ideal soil conditions. In response, the agriculture department has mobilized resources to ensure timely supply of seeds and fertilizers through 31 Raitha Samparka Kendras (RSKs). Distribution has already begun at various centers, and authorities confirm adequate stock levels.

This season, the district targets 2.81 lakh hectares for sowing. Major crops include soya (34,600 ha), groundnut (20,700 ha), maize (32,400 ha), paddy (8,920 ha in Dharwad and Kalghatgi taluks), green gram (1 lakh ha), black gram (10,000 ha), cotton (52,000 ha), and sugarcane (9,050 ha).

Officials confirmed there is no shortage of agricultural inputs. The district holds 16,470 quintals of seed stock and has met the 44,470 metric tonnes fertilizer demand. To prevent any artificial scarcity, strict monitoring and inspections will be carried out at distribution centers.

Farmers are hopeful for a productive season with timely rains and robust institutional support.

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