These crops require a cool climate during growth and a warm, dry climate for seed germination and harvesting. They do not rely on monsoon rains and are instead sustained by irrigation or occasional winter showers. Major Crops: Wheat: The staple Rabi crop in India. Barley: Resilient to cooler temperatures. Mustard: A major oilseed grown in winter. Others: Gram (chickpeas), peas, and linseed. Comparison at a Glance Kharif Crops Rabi Crops Sowing Season Start of Monsoon (June/July) Start of Winter (Oct/Nov) Harvest Season Autumn (Sept/Oct) Spring (March/April) Water Requirement High (Rain-dependent) Moderate (Irrigation-dependent) Temperature Hot and Humid Cool and Dry Example Rice, Maize, Cotton Wheat, Gram, Mustard The "Zaid" Season: The Short Gap