Kharif

Kharif refers to the annual monsoon crop grown in India and other parts of South Asia. The word "Kharif" itself is derived from an Arabic word meaning "autumn." This cropping season typically runs from June to October, coinciding with the arrival of the southwest monsoon rains. The sowing of Kharif crops begins with the onset of the monsoon, and the harvest usually takes place in the autumn months.

Essential Kharif crops include rice, maize (corn), sorghum, millet, pulses like urad and moong, and oilseeds such as groundnut and soybean. These crops are heavily dependent on adequate rainfall for their growth. Variations in monsoon patterns, such as delayed onset or insufficient rainfall, can significantly impact the yield of Kharif crops and consequently affect food security and the agricultural economy. Farmers carefully select their Kharif crops based on local climate conditions, soil type, and market demand. The success of the Kharif season is crucial for the agricultural sector and the livelihoods of millions of farmers in the region.