India to see record kharif output growth, foodgrain production to cross 173 million tonnes
New Delhi, Nov 26
India is expected to post a record growth in production of major kharif crops, with total foodgrain output estimated to increase by 3.87 million tonnes to 173.33 million tonnes, the government said on Wednesday.
Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan released the first advanced estimates of production of main kharif crops showing kharif rice and maize posting strong gains.
The rice production is estimated at 124.5 million tonnes, up 1.73 million tonnes from last year, while maize production is estimated at 28.3 million tonnes, an increase of 3.4 million tonnes YoY, according to estimates.
Total kharif coarse cereals are estimated at 41.4 million tonnes and pulses at 7.4 million tonnes, including tur (arhar) at 3.59 million tonnes, urad at 1.2 million tonnes and moong at 1.72 million tonnes.
The minister informed that excessive rainfall affected crops in some areas, but most areas benefited greatly from good monsoon rains, resulting in overall good crop growth.
Oilseed production is estimated at 27.56 million tonnes, and soybean at 14.26 million tonnes. Peanut (groundnut) production is estimated at 11 million tonnes, 0.68 million tonnes higher than last year.
Sugarcane production is estimated at 475.6 million tonnes, up 21 million tonnes compared to last year. Cotton production is estimated at 29.2 million bales (each bale weighing 170 kilograms), and production of Patson and Mesta is estimated at 8.3 million bales.
These estimates are based on yield trends from previous years, other ground-level inputs, regional observations, and, predominantly, data received from states. Revisions will be made when actual crop cutting experiment yield data becomes available, the statement noted.
— IANS
Reader Comments
This is wonderful news, but I hope the government ensures that farmers actually benefit from this increased production. Sometimes good production doesn't mean good income for farmers due to market fluctuations.
The monsoon has been a blessing this year! Good to see our food security strengthening. The sugarcane production crossing 475 million tonnes is particularly impressive. 🎉
As someone working in agriculture exports, this is fantastic news! Increased production means we can strengthen our position in global markets. The pulse production numbers look promising too.
While the numbers look good, I hope the government focuses on proper storage facilities and supply chain management. We've seen crops go waste due to inadequate infrastructure in the past.
Impressive growth in maize production - up 3.4 million tonnes! This could really boost our animal feed industry and help control prices. Great work by our farming community! ðŸ‘
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