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Maharashtra's foodgrains production is expected to decrease by 18% to 10.43 million tonne in 2012-13 from 12.73 million tonne in 2011-12 due to the delays in the sowing of major kharif crops following low intensity and deficit monsoon in some parts of western Maharashtra, Aurangabad and Nashik divisions. Besides, the agriculture sector is expected to grow at minus 1.4%, restraining the growth of agriculture and allied activities sector at minus 2.1%.
On the other hand, gross state domestic product at constant (2004-5) prices, as per advance estimates, is expected to grow at 7.1%, industry sector at 7% and services sector by 8.5% in 2012-13.
As per the Maharashtra's economic survey for 2012-13 tabled in the state legislature, during the kharif season area sown under principal crops was 14.26 million hectare, 4% less than previous year (14.86 million hectare). The area under cereals and pulses fell by 10% each while 8% for sugarcane. However, the area under oilseeds increased by 4%.
Soyabean is clearly emerging as major oilseed crop with growth of 164% in area and 214% in production during the last 10 years and contributing 91.6% oilseed production.
Further, the deficit rain in kharif and rabi season resulted in reduction in the area under rabi crops as compared to previous year.
It must be mentioned here Gujarat has achieved 10.8% agricultural growth during the last decade while Bihar during 2011-12 agriculture production marked a growth rate of 17.16%. Moreover, Madhya Pradesh has recorded the highest agricultural growth in the country during 2011-12 at 18%.
