Record 357 million tons goodgrain output in 2024-25 pushes India to new agricultural highs

Ziraat Times News Network

New Delhi: India has achieved its highest-ever foodgrain production, with output touching 357.73 million tonnes in 2024–25—an increase of nearly 8 percent over last year—according to the final crop production estimates released today by the Ministry of Agriculture. Union Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, who released the data in New Delhi, hailed the record performance as a testament to the hard work of Indian farmers and the government’s sustained support to the agriculture sector.

The latest figures show a historic rise of 106 million tonnes in total foodgrain production over the past decade. Foodgrain output has climbed from 251.54 million tonnes in 2015–16 to the current year’s record of 357.73 million tonnes, marking the highest growth phase in 10 years.

Rice, Wheat Lead the Record Surge

The Minister shared crop-wise figures showing unprecedented expansion across major staples.

• Rice production climbed to an all-time high of 1,501.84 lakh tonnes, up by 123.59 lakh tonnes from last year.

• Wheat output also hit a record 1,179.45 lakh tonnes, an increase of 46.53 lakh tonnes over 2023–24.

• Production of maize rose to 434.09 lakh tonnes, while ‘Shri Anna’ (millet) reached 185.92 lakh tonnes, both marking notable improvements over previous estimates.

Pulses production increased as well, with moong touching 42.44 lakh tonnes and chickpea being estimated at 111.14 lakh tonnes.

Oilseed Mission Shows Strong Progress

The government’s focus on boosting oilseed cultivation continues to pay off. Total oilseed output for 2024–25 is projected at a record 429.89 lakh tonnes, up by more than 33 lakh tonnes compared to last year.

The gains are driven primarily by:

• Soybean: 152.68 lakh tonnes (up 22.06 lakh tonnes)

• Groundnut: 119.42 lakh tonnes (up 17.62 lakh tonnes)

• Rapeseed & Mustard: 126.67 lakh tonnes

Chouhan said the steady rise in oilseed production reflects the success of targeted initiatives and ongoing policy support.

Other Major Crops Show Upward Trend

The final estimates also list production figures for several key crops:

• Nutri/Coarse Cereals: 639.21 lakh tonnes

• Total Pulses: 256.83 lakh tonnes

• Tur: 36.24 lakh tonnes

• Sugarcane: 4,546.11 lakh tonnes

• Cotton: 297.24 lakh bales (170 kg each)

• Jute & Mesta: 88.02 lakh bales (180 kg each)

‘Self-Reliance in Pulses Mission Will Accelerate Growth’

Discussing the future strategy with senior officials, the Minister expressed confidence that the government’s ‘Self-Reliance in Pulses Mission’ will further boost pulse production across the country. He reiterated that MSP procurement for tur, urad, chana, and moong is already benefiting large numbers of farmers and strengthening income security.

“The government will continue to give top priority to agriculture and farmers,” Chouhan said, adding that India’s agricultural welfare programmes are ensuring consistent, positive outcomes.