Timely temperature drops and an early onset of winter have accelerated the pace of Rabi crop sowing across the country. According to the latest data from the Agriculture Ministry, total Rabi acreage reached 20.819 million hectares as of November 14 about 10.3% higher than last years 18.873 million hectares. Major crops such as wheat, gram, barley, pulses, and maize have all reported strong increases. Experts say that the early and adequate cold conditions in northern India are likely to enhance wheat productivity. Wheat acreage jumps 17% now at 6.623 million hectares Wheat sowing has surged by 17% over last year, reaching 6.623 million hectares. Haryana, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh are leading the expansion. The Indian Institute of Wheat and Barley Research (IIWBR), Karnal, has advised farmers to ensure timely irrigation and weed management. For wheat sown in October, the first irrigation is essential after 20-25 days; for crops sown in early November, irrigation is recommended after a similar interval. Timely weeding is also critical to prevent early-stage losses. Steady rise in oilseeds; mustard alone covers 6.423 million hectares Total oilseed acreage stands at 6.617 million hectares, up 5.2% from last year. Mustard dominates with 6.423 million hectares, registering a 6.1% increase. Higher market prices and improved MSP have encouraged more farmers to shift towards mustard cultivation. Government production targets: 119 MT wheat, 16.57 MT pulses For this Rabi season, the central government has set ambitious production targets: Wheat: 119 million tonnes Rice: 15.86 million tonnes Pulses: 16.57 million tonnes Coarse cereals: 3.17 million tonnes Maize: 14.5 million tonnes Barley: 2.05 million tonnes Oilseeds: 15.07 million tonnes Total foodgrain: 171.14 million tonnes With early sowing progress and favourable weather patterns, the government expects to surpass last years record production.