To understand the diversity of this season, let’s look at the primary crops that dominate the landscape:
| Parameter | Kharif | Rabi | |-----------|--------|------| | Season | Monsoon (June–Oct) | Winter (Oct–March) | | Sowing | With onset of rains | After monsoon recedes | | Harvest | Autumn / early winter | Spring | | Water source | Rain + irrigation | Irrigation (groundwater/canals) | | Temperature | Warm (25–35°C) | Cool (10–25°C) | | Day length | Long days → short days | Short days → longer days | | Typical crops | Rice, maize, cotton, groundnut, bajra | Wheat, barley, chickpea, mustard, peas |
A major oilseed, groundnut is grown extensively in states like Gujarat and Andhra Pradesh. It is a hardy crop that can tolerate moderate dry spells better than rice. Why the Kharif Season Matters