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Which crops are most important to West Bengalās agriculture?
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West Bengal
A tea plantation in Western Dooars, northern West Bengal, India.
Agriculture is the dominant sector in West Bengal, which maintains one of the highest proportions of agricultural land among Indian states.1
Rice is the state's leading crop, cultivated extensively across nearly all areas. Other significant agricultural products include:12
- Cash and Industrial Crops: Jute is particularly prominent south of the Ganges and along the border with Bangladesh, while sugarcane and oilseeds are also major contributors to the economy.12
- Fruits and Vegetables: The southern and central regions are known for mangoes, jackfruit, and bananas. Potatoes and wheat are grown as winter crops throughout the south.1
- Northern Specialties: The northern areas, specifically around Darjeeling and Jalpaiguri, are famous for high-quality tea. The Darjeeling region also produces oranges, apples, pineapples, ginger, and cardamom.1