06 June 2024, Telangana: In the third advance estimates released by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare’s for the 2023-24 crop year, the data paints a compelling picture of India’s evolving rice production landscape. And at the forefront of this narrative stands the state of Telangana, emerging as the undisputed leader in the nation’s rice cultivation efforts.

Telangana’s Ascent to Rice Supremacy

Once known primarily for its progressive agricultural policies and emphasis on crop diversification, Telangana has now solidified its position as the top rice-producing state in India. With an estimated output of 166.31 Lakh Metric Tons (LMT), the state accounts for a remarkable 12% of the country’s total rice production, a testament to its strategic vision and meticulous implementation.

According to the estimates, the total rice production in India is expected to reach 1367.00 Lakh Metric Tons (LMT) in 2023-24, up from 1357.55 LMT in the previous year, marking an increase of 9.45 LMT.

The top 5 rice-producing states in India, as per the Third Advance Estimates, are Telangana (166.31 LMT), Uttar Pradesh: (157.22 LMT), West Bengal (151.18 LMT), Punjab (143.90 LMT), Odisha (101.30 LMT).

Despite its status as the most populous state in India, Uttar Pradesh has managed to maintain its stronghold in rice cultivation. Accounting for around 11.5% of the national rice production, the state has proven its resilience, firmly retaining its position among the top rice-producing powerhouses.

Nestled along the fertile Gangetic plains, West Bengal continues to be a true rice powerhouse, contributing 11% of the country’s total rice output. This rice-centric state has leveraged its natural advantages to cement its place as a key player in India’s rice production landscape.

Punjab, long hailed as the traditional breadbasket of India, has once again demonstrated its prowess in rice production. Contributing over 10.5% of the national rice output, the state has solidified its status as a top-tier rice-producing giant, a testament to its agricultural prowess.

Boasting abundant water resources and favorable agro-climatic conditions, Odisha has emerged as a rising star in India’s rice production arena. Contributing about 7.4% of the total rice production, the state has proven its potential to be a formidable player in the country’s rice cultivation landscape.

The Ministry’s estimates have been prepared based on information received from State Agricultural Statistics Authorities, remote sensing data, crop weather monitoring, and other relevant factors. These states, each with its unique strengths and strategies, have collectively woven the tapestry of India’s rice heartland, ensuring the country’s food security and the livelihoods of millions of farmers. As the Indian government continues to focus on enhancing agricultural productivity and diversifying crop patterns, these top rice-producing states are poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the country’s agricultural landscape.

Published Date: June 6, 2024