Foodgrains output projected to fall by 10pc in Kharif: Pawar

While Production of rice -- a major Kharif (summer) crop -- is estimated to fall by 6.48 per cent, coarse cereals is likely to decline by 18.32 per cent and pulses by 14.6 per cent. Oilseeds, cotton and sugarcane output has also been pegged lower than last year.

Notwithstanding the fall in Kharif output, Agriculture Minister Sharad Pawar said the total foodgrains production in 2012-13, from both Kharif and Rabi (winter sowing) seasons, would be enough to meet annual domestic demand of 238 MT.

"As per the first advance estimate, total foodgrains production is expected at 117.18 MT in the kharif season of 2012-13 crop year, lower than the last year but higher than the average production of 113 MT in last five years," he said.

Foodgrains output was 129.94 MT in last year's Kharif.

Rice production is estimated to decline to 85.59 MT from 91.53 MT in the last Kharif, while output of coarse cereals could fall to 26.33 MT from 32.26 MT and that of pulses to 5.26 MT from 6.16 MT in the last kharif season.

The expected fall in production is due to "delay in onset of monsoon along with rainfall deficiency in many parts of the country," Pawar said, adding the total deficit has come down to five per cent now. Karnataka, Maharashtra, Gujarat and Rajasthan have declared drought in over 390 taluks.

"Whatever shortfall we have seen in kharif season will be covered in rabi," the minister said.

Asked about its impact on prices, Pawar said: "Last year's stock position of wheat and rice is extremely good. There is no problem. I am worried prices of wheat, atta and sugar are going up. I do not understand the reason".

Pawar said he would discuss this issue with Food and Consumer Affairs Minister K V Thomas. (MORE)