Zaid Farming Challenges In India [new] May 2026

India needs a dedicated National Zaid Mission under the Ministry of Agriculture to address the unique seasonal vulnerabilities that fall between Kharif and Rabi policy gaps. End of paper.

Author: Agricultural Policy Analysis Desk Date: April 2026 1. Introduction In India, the agricultural year is traditionally divided into Kharif (monsoon) and Rabi (winter) seasons. However, a short but critical third season exists: Zaid (summer cropping, roughly April–June). Zaid crops are sown between Rabi harvest and Kharif sowing, bridging the food supply gap. Common Zaid crops include watermelon, muskmelon, cucumber, fodder, sesame, and some short-duration pulses and vegetables. zaid farming challenges in india