Gujarat’s Moong Cultivation Faces 17% Decline: What’s Behind the Dramatic Drop?
Present Kharif Season Shows Decline in Sowing
In our previous report we noted that the new moong crop in Karnataka brought increased acreage and favourable conditions, presenting opportunities and challenges for exporters amid evolving market dynamics.Conversely, in the ongoing Kharif season, Gujarat has witnessed a notable reduction in moong sowing, with a decline of about 17% compared to the previous year. This decrease is evident across all major moong-producing regions of the state, ranging from 13% to over 50%. The latest data released by the state agriculture department clearly highlights this downward trend.
Statewide Moong Sowing Statistics
As per the latest figures, moong has been sown on approximately 51,300 hectares in Gujarat this season, down from 61,800 hectares during the same period last year. This translates to a reduction of 10,500 hectares or 16.99%. Consequently, this decrease may impact the overall production of moong in the state.Regional Analysis
Kutch: Leading the Decline
- Kutch, the largest moong-producing region in Gujarat, has experienced a significant drop in sowing.
- Specifically, the region saw moong sown on 30,200 hectares this season, a decrease from 35,800 hectares last year.
- This represents a 15.64% decline, which could potentially affect the local agricultural economy.
North Gujarat: Notable Decrease
- In North Gujarat, the area under moong cultivation has reduced to 11,100 hectares, down from 12,900 hectares in the previous season.
- This marks a decline of 1,800 hectares or 13.95%. As a result, the region might see a reduction in yield and overall production.
Central Gujarat: Sharpest Reduction Observed
- Central Gujarat recorded the steepest decrease in moong sowing.
- Only 1,500 hectares have been sown this season, compared to 3,100 hectares last year, which amounts to a significant reduction of 51.61%.
- Therefore, this sharp decline could have a considerable impact on the region’s contribution to the state's pulse production.
Saurashtra: Continued Decline
- Saurashtra has also reported a decrease in moong sowing, with the area dropping to 8,100 hectares from 9,300 hectares last year.
- This reflects a 12.90% reduction in sowing activity.
- Furthermore, this ongoing trend might affect the region's overall agricultural output.
South Gujarat: Minor Decrease in Sowing
- In South Gujarat, the smallest moong-producing region, the sowing area has reduced slightly to 600 hectares from 700 hectares last season, marking a decline of 14.28%.
- Although the decrease is minor compared to other regions, it still contributes to the overall downward trend in moong cultivation across the state.