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What are the major crops grown with water from the Indus River system?

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Physical map showing the Indus River basin and its drainage network across parts of Pakistan, India, China, and Afghanistan. The map details river courses, tributaries, canals, dams, irrigated and marsh areas, sand regions, and elevation changes with shaded relief. International, disputed, and control boundaries are marked, and a small locator map in the corner shows the basin's position within South Asia. — Indus River The Indus River basin and its drainage network.

The Indus River system has supported agriculture in the region since ancient times, providing the water necessary for a diverse range of crops.12

Major crops grown using water from the Indus River system include:

Cereals: Wheat and rice are among the most significant crops, with production bolstered by modern irrigation and the Green Revolution. Other important cereals include barley, corn (maize), and pearl millet.132
Cash Crops: Cotton and sugarcane are widely cultivated, with cotton serving as a major cash crop in regions like the Sindh.13
Other Crops: Farmers also produce oilseeds, chickpeas, peanuts, pulses (legumes), and various vegetables. Additionally, the region supports the growth of fruit, including mangoes, guavas, and citrus.231

Historically, the Indus civilization also relied on crops such as dates, sesame, field peas, and lentils. While irrigation has been essential for this agricultural success, it requires careful management to prevent soil degradation from waterlogging and salt accumulation.21