India Anticipates Record Wheat Production Amid Agricultural Challenges

India is projected to produce a record 115.4 million metric tonnes of wheat this year. Higher prices and favorable weather encouraged increased planting. Despite this, there are concerns regarding weather impacts on crops. Other crops like maize and rice are also expected to show positive yields. Government strategies aim to support agricultural development and farmers’ income.

India is projected to achieve a record wheat production of 115.4 million metric tonnes this year, according to the agriculture ministry’s second advance estimates. The area cultivated with high-yielding seed varieties has increased, driven by higher federally guaranteed prices and favorable weather conditions.

As the world’s second-largest wheat producer, India had reported a production of 113.3 million tonnes in 2024. However, a leading industry body indicated that this output fell nearly 6% short of governmental estimates.

Shivraj Singh Chouhan, the agriculture minister, emphasized that the government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is committed to advancing agricultural development and increasing farmers’ income.

In 2022, India had imposed a ban on wheat exports following adverse weather conditions that negatively impacted crop yields. The India Meteorological Department has forecasted a similar rise in temperatures this March across major wheat-growing regions, raising concerns about potential threats to the crop.

Wheat millers have urged the government to either reduce or eliminate the 40% import duty on wheat, which they believe would help stabilize market speculation, according to Navneet Chitlangia, the president of the Rollers Flour Millers’ Federation of India.

Rainfall in the northwest region, a principal wheat-growing area, has been reported at nearly 80% below normal since the year’s start. As of late February, the area dedicated to wheat cultivation was approximately 32.5 million hectares, reflecting a 2% increase from the previous year.

Additionally, summer-sown rice production is anticipated to reach 120.7 million tonnes, while rapeseed and chickpea yields are projected at 12.9 million tonnes and 11.5 million tonnes respectively. Furthermore, maize output is expected to reach 24.6 million tonnes, marking an increase of nearly 2% from last year.

India is set to achieve record wheat production this year, alongside improved outputs in other key crops, including maize and rice. While favorable conditions have driven increased planting, concerns surrounding potential temperature rises and reduced rainfall warrant attention. The government’s proactive measures and commitment to boosting agricultural productivity are pivotal in addressing these challenges and enhancing farmers’ prosperity.

Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com