Odisha paddy coverage reaches 36.18 lakh hectares in Kharif 2026

Preliminary estimates presented in the Odisha Assembly indicate that paddy cultivation for the Kharif 2026 season has covered 36.18 lakh hectares as of September 19, 2026. This figure represents a decline compared to previous years, specifically falling below the 37.49 lakh hectares recorded in 2024-25 and the 39.42 lakh hectares in 2025-26.

District-level data shows Mayurbhanj has the highest coverage at 3.15 lakh hectares, followed by Bargarh, Ganjam, Sundargarh, and Balangir. While overall coverage has decreased by approximately 3.24 lakh hectares compared to last year, seven districts—including Bargarh, Khordha, and Puri—have reported increases in cultivation area.

Agriculture Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo noted that these figures are provisional and subject to change once the agricultural season is complete.