India’s 2024-25 Kharif Crop Estimates Released: Record 1,647.05 LMT Foodgrain Production Expected

Key Highlights

• Record foodgrain production estimated at 1,647.05 LMT
• Rice production is projected at 1,199.34 LMT, up by 66.75 LMT
• Maize is expected to reach 245.41 LMT, the highest on record
• Oilseed production estimated at 257.45 LMT, with strong soybean and groundnut yields
• Digital Crop Survey enhances accuracy in crop area estimates

The Ministry of Agriculture and Farmer’s Welfare has announced impressive estimates for India’s Kharif crop production for the 2024-25 season. According to the First Advance Estimates, Kharif foodgrain production is expected to reach a record 1,647.05 lakh metric tonnes (LMT). This growth, driven by strong yields in rice, maize, and oilseeds, reflects an increase of 89.37 LMT compared to last year.

Highlights of the 2024-25 Kharif Season

The government’s estimates show promising numbers in key Kharif crops, including rice, maize, and oilseeds. The data used for these projections come from the new Digital Crop Survey (DCS), a modern technology launched to replace traditional manual crop surveys. This digital method, piloted in states like Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, and Odisha, provides more accurate data, helping the government make better predictions.

• Rice: Projected rice production is 1,199.34 LMT, a jump of 66.75 LMT from last year. Uttar Pradesh has seen significant growth in rice production due to the new digital tracking method.

Also Read: Top 10 Rice-Producing States in India 2024: Rankings, Insights, Cultivation & Trends

• Maize: Maize production is expected to reach an all-time high of 245.41 LMT.
• Nutri/Coarse Cereals: A total of 378.18 LMT is expected from this group.
• Pulses: Pulses production is estimated at 69.54 LMT, including tur, urad, and moong varieties.

Boost in Oilseeds and Cash Crops

Alongside foodgrains, the 2024-25 Kharif season is also expected to see strong results in oilseeds and cash crops.

• Oilseeds: Total oilseed production is projected at 257.45 LMT, an increase of 15.83 LMT over last year. Groundnut and soybean are the major contributors, with production estimates of 103.60 LMT and 133.60 LMT, respectively.
• Sugarcane and Cotton: Sugarcane production is estimated at 4,399.30 lakh tonnes, while cotton is projected to reach 299.26 lakh bales (170 kg each).
• Jute and Mesta: Production is estimated at 84.56 lakh bales (180 kg each).

Also Read: Farmers in Gujarat to Receive ₹1,419.62 Crore in Crop Loss Compensation

Advanced Technology in Crop Estimation

For the first time this season, crop area estimates have benefited from DCS data. The Ministry aims to collect precise data and enhance agricultural planning by using digital methods under the Digital Agriculture Mission. Data collected digitally from states helped raise the accuracy of projections for this season, with more refined figures expected from field surveys at harvest.

These early estimates provide an optimistic outlook for the 2024-25 Kharif season. After field data is collected through Crop Cutting Experiments (CCEs), final adjustments will be made, providing a clearer picture of the year’s production.

Also Read: High-Yielding Wheat Variety: Pusa Malvi HD 4728 and How to Sow It

CMV360 Says

The 2024-25 Kharif crop season shows remarkable growth, with foodgrain production projected to reach a record 1,647.05 LMT. Enhanced by digital surveys, especially in states like Uttar Pradesh, these estimates highlight India's advancements in agricultural technology. Final data from field experiments will confirm the results, marking a promising season for Indian agriculture and food security.