Lucknow, June 24 -- : With concerns over abnormal rainfall and weather uncertainty, Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath on Tuesday directed all departments to remain on full alert and ensure timely support to farmers during the Kharif season.

Reviewing preparations of departments under the agriculture production commissioner branch, the chief minister said agriculture remains the backbone of the state economy and stressed timely availability of seeds, fertilisers, irrigation water, electricity, crop loans and scientific advisories.

The state has set a Kharif 2026 coverage target of 110.65 lakh hectares, up from 106.60 lakh hectares last year, with paddy production targeted at 224.25 lakh metric tonnes and total Kharif output at...