The Indian government has urged states to prioritize the sowing of pulses and oilseeds during the upcoming kharif season, responding to forecasts of below-normal rainfall and potential disruptions in fertilizer supplies. This directive aims to enhance domestic production and reduce reliance on imports, particularly as fertilizer supply chains are strained due to the ongoing crisis in West Asia. Pulses are being promoted as a viable crop option in many regions because they require less nutrient application compared to other crops. Among oilseeds, soybean is identified as a robust choice for this season, especially with the looming risks associated with El Nino, which may impact monsoon rainfall. During the National Kharif Campaign 2026 Conclave, Union agriculture minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan highlighted the government's commitment to improving seed availability, increasing seed replacement rates, and strengthening processing infrastructure for these crops. The India Meteorological Department has projected that the southwest monsoon will deliver rainfall at approximately 90% of the long-period average, prompting the government to align national and state-level agricultural priorities ahead of the crucial sowing period.