What are the rabi crops harvested in India?

The festival of Lohri marks the beginning of crop cultivation in the Northern states of India. Here are some rabi crops harvested in the country during this season.

The harvest festival in North India signifies the end of the winter solstice and the welcoming of longer days, marking the beginning of crop harvesting, especially in Punjab. During this time of the year, various rabi crops are harvested.

Rabi crops are those grown in India during the winter months of October and November, with harvesting taking place from January onward. As winter crops, they require frequent irrigation, given that they are cultivated in dry regions, particularly in the Northern states. Here are some examples of the rabi crops found in India.

1. Sugarcane

Sugarcane holds great importance for the farmers of Punjab as this is one of the first crops that is cultivated by them after Lohri 

2. Wheat 

Wheat is a staple food for many regions in India and is one of the major rabi crops. It is widely grown in Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Madhya Pradesh.

3. Mustard

Mustard or Sarso is an oilseed crop that is grown in the states are Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and Madhya Pradesh. 

4. Chickpea 

Chickpea is largely found during this season and is grown in places like Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Maharashtra. 

5. Barley

Barley is a cereal grain that is mostly cultivated in the areas of Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh. 

6. Bajra

Bajra or pearl millet is a millet that is found in areas of Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra and Gujarat. 

7. Oats

Oats are a nutrient-rich cereal grain that is mainly grown in some areas like Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh.

8. Lentils 

Lentils or Masoor are also grown during the rabi season and are found in states like Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal.