India kharif sunflower acreage down 51% on year at 27,400 ha as of 30 June due to low rainfall in the southern part of Karnataka so far this monsoon season. Karnataka usually accounts for more than 75% of the country total kharif sunflower cultivation. Acreage of sunflower in Karnataka was around 26,000 ha down 50% on year. Sunflower sowing in the southern part of Karnataka has been delayed due to deficient rains.