India record crop production 2024-25

India has achieved unprecedented milestones in agricultural production for the 2024–25 period, as highlighted by the Second Advance Estimates released by the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare. The nation has recorded significant increases in the production of key crops, including rice, wheat, maize, groundnut, and soybean, underscoring the effectiveness of governmental policies and the resilience of the agricultural sector.

Record-Breaking Crop Production 2024-25

The total foodgrain production for 2024–25 is estimated at a remarkable 3,309.18 lakh metric tons (LMT), with Kharif (summer-sown) crops contributing 1,663.91 LMT and Rabi (winter-sown) crops adding 1,645.27 LMT. This cumulative output reflects a substantial increase over previous years, reinforcing India’s position as a leading agricultural producer.

• Rice: Kharif rice production has reached an all-time high of 1,206.79 LMT, an increase of 74.20 LMT compared to the previous year’s 1,132.59 LMT. Rabi rice production is estimated at 157.58 LMT, maintaining a stable yield.
• Wheat: Wheat production has soared to a record 1,154.30 LMT, marking an increase of 21.38 LMT from the prior year’s 1,132.92 LMT. This growth is attributed to favorable weather conditions and the adoption of high-yielding varieties.
• Maize: The production of maize has seen a significant boost, with Kharif maize estimated at 248.11 LMT and Rabi maize at 124.38 LMT, reflecting the crop’s growing importance in India’s agricultural landscape.

Rise in Nutri/Coarse Cereals and Pulses Crop Production 2024-25

The production of nutri and coarse cereals, including millets (referred to as ‘Shree Anna’), has continued its upward trend.

• Millets (Shree Anna): Kharif production is estimated at 137.52 LMT, while Rabi production stands at 30.81 LMT, highlighting the increasing focus on these nutrient-rich grains.
• Pulses: Tur (pigeon pea) production is estimated at 35.11 LMT, gram (chickpea) at 115.35 LMT, and lentil at 18.17 LMT, indicating stable yields and consistent productivity in the pulses sector.

Exceptional Performance in Oilseeds Crop Production 2024-25

The oilseeds sector has witnessed remarkable growth, with both Kharif and Rabi seasons contributing to record outputs.

• Groundnut: Kharif groundnut production has risen to 104.26 LMT, significantly exceeding the previous year’s 86.60 LMT. Rabi groundnut adds another 8.87 LMT to the total output.
• Soybean: Production has climbed to 151.32 LMT, reflecting an increase of 20.70 LMT from the prior year’s 130.62 LMT, underscoring soybean’s growing prominence in India’s oilseed production.
• Rapeseed and mustard: These crops have also performed well, with production reaching 128.73 LMT, contributing substantially to the country’s edible oil supply.

Robust Output in Cash Crop Production 2024-25

Beyond foodgrains and oilseeds, cash crops have demonstrated strong performance, further strengthening India’s agricultural economy.

• Sugarcane: Production is estimated at 4,350.79 LMT, supporting the country’s sugar industry and related sectors.
• Cotton: The production of cotton is projected at 294.25 lakh bales (each weighing 170 kg), sustaining the textile industry’s raw material needs.
• Jute: Production is estimated at 83.08 lakh bales (each weighing 180 kg), maintaining a steady supply for the jute industry.

Government Initiatives and Policy Support

The remarkable achievements in agricultural production are a testament to the effective implementation of various government schemes and initiatives aimed at enhancing productivity and ensuring farmer welfare. Key measures include:

• Increased Budget Allocations: The government’s budgetary support for agriculture has seen a significant rise, reflecting its commitment to the sector’s growth and sustainability.
• Minimum Support Price (MSP) Revisions: Regular revisions of MSP for various crops have ensured better income for farmers, encouraging them to adopt improved agricultural practices and technologies.
• Digital Initiatives: The introduction of digital crop surveys and the computerization of Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS) have enhanced transparency and efficiency in the agricultural supply chain.

Implications for Food Security and Farmer Prosperity

The record-breaking production levels have significant implications for India’s food security and the prosperity of its farmers. The surplus in key staples like rice and wheat ensures a stable domestic supply, potentially leading to increased export opportunities and improved farmer incomes. Moreover, the emphasis on nutrient-rich millets aligns with global health trends, promoting better nutrition and sustainable agriculture.

End Note

India’s agricultural sector has demonstrated remarkable resilience and growth in the 2024–25 period, achieving record production across various crops. This success is a result of strategic government interventions, favorable climatic conditions, and the relentless efforts of the farming community. As the nation continues to build on these achievements, it moves closer to ensuring food security, enhancing farmer livelihoods, and establishing itself as a global leader in sustainable agriculture.