What are Crops? Crops are plants grown by the farmers. Agriculture plays a very important role in the Indian economy. It is the backbone of our country. 70% of the Indian population depends on agriculture for food and money. It is the major occupation in the rural areas. The CULTIVATION of crops depends primarily on the weather and soil conditions. Types of Crops The crops are of the following types depending upon the season in which they are grown: Kharif Crops The crops which are grown in the monsoon season in the month of June-September are known as Kharif crops. For eg., maize, millet, and cotton. The seeds are sown at the beginning of monsoon season and harvested at the end of the monsoon season, usually in the month of October-November. Such crops require a lot of water and hot weather for proper growth. Rabi Crops The name “Rabi” means “SPRING” – a word derived from Arabic. The crops that are grown in the winter season and harvested in the spring, i.e., from the month of October to March are called Rabi crops. Wheat, gram, and MUSTARD are some of the Rabi crops. Various agricultural practices are carried out to produce new crop varieties. Such crops require a warm climate for the GERMINATION and maturation of seeds. They, however, require a cold climate for their growth. Zaid Crops Such crops are grown between the Kharif and Rabi seasons, i.e., between March and June. These crops mature EARLY. Cucumber, pumpkin, bitter gourd, and watermelon are zaid crops. Also Read: Bt crops Factors Affecting Crop Production