India's foodgrain production hits record 332.22 MT in 2023-24: Govt

In the 2023-24 crop year, India's agriculture ministry reported a record-breaking foodgrain production of 332.22 million tonnes, driven by exceptional wheat and rice yields. Rice output reached 137.82 million tonnes, and wheat production hit 113.29 million tonnes. Despite minor declines in pulses and oilseeds due to adverse weather, the sector remains resilient. The collaborative efforts from states and union territories have been instrumental in achieving these milestones, highlighting India's commitment to agricultural excellence and self-sufficiency.

India's agricultural sector has achieved a remarkable milestone in the 2023-24 crop year, as announced by the agriculture ministry. The country's foodgrain production soared to an all-time high of 332.22 million tonnes, showcasing a robust performance led by exceptional yields in wheat and rice.

The latest figures for the 2023-24 crop year reveal a notable increase of 2.61 million tonnes compared to the previous year, which stood at 329.6 million tonnes. Rice production notably surged to a record-breaking 137.82 million tonnes, a significant rise from the 135.75 million tonnes recorded in 2022-23. Similarly, wheat output also witnessed a remarkable upswing, reaching 113.29 million tonnes, surpassing the previous year's 110.55 million tonnes.

Despite these impressive gains, there were slight setbacks in pulses production, which decreased to 24.24 million tonnes from 26.05 million tonnes, and oilseeds output, which fell to 39.66 million tonnes from 41.35 million tonnes. The ministry attributed these declines to adverse weather conditions, specifically citing "drought-like conditions in southern states, including Maharashtra, and prolonged dry spells in August, particularly in Rajasthan."

Sugarcane production experienced a dip to 453.15 million tonnes from 490.53 million tonnes, while cotton output declined to 32.52 million bales (1 bale equals 170 kg) from 33.66 million bales. It's worth noting that the foodgrains basket encompasses rice, wheat, coarse cereals, millets, and pulses, forming the backbone of India's agricultural landscape.

These encouraging estimates are a result of collaborative efforts and diligent information gathering from states and union territories, underscoring the resilience and adaptability of India's agricultural sector. Despite challenges, the nation's agricultural community continues to strive for excellence and sustainability, setting new benchmarks for food production and self-sufficiency.