DBT Bureau
Pune, 28 May 2026
India’s foodgrain production for the 2025-26 crop year is estimated to rise over 5%, supported by record output in rice, wheat, pulses, and maize. Rice production is projected at an all-time high of 154.02 million tonnes, while wheat output is expected to reach 120.66 million tonnes despite weather-related disruptions. Pulses production increased sharply, led by higher gram and lentil output, whereas maize production crossed the 50 million tonne mark for the first time. However, cotton production declined marginally and nutri-cereal output also slipped. Strong agricultural performance is expected to support domestic food security amid concerns over below-normal monsoon and possible El Niño conditions.
Key Highlights
- India’s total foodgrain production increased over 5% in 2025-26 crop year.
- Rice production touched a record 154.02 million tonnes, highest ever.
- Wheat output rose to an all-time high of 120.66 million tonnes.
- Maize production crossed 50 million tonnes for the first time.
- Cotton and nutri-cereal production declined despite overall robust crop output.
India’s agricultural sector witnessed a strong performance during the 2025-26 crop year, with total foodgrain production estimated to rise by more than 5%, driven by record output in rice, wheat, pulses, and maize. The latest third advance estimates released by the government indicate that higher acreage, favorable crop conditions, and improved farm technologies supported the overall production growth across key crops.
Rice production is estimated at a record 154.02 million tonnes, up 2.6% from last year’s 150.18 million tonnes, reinforcing India’s position as the world’s largest rice producer. Wheat production is also projected at an all-time high of 120.66 million tonnes, registering a 2.3% increase from the previous year despite localized crop damage caused by unseasonal rains and hailstorms. The higher output is expected to maintain adequate domestic availability and support stable market sentiment.
Among other crops, pulses production is estimated at 27.41 million tonnes, reflecting a strong 6.7% annual increase, mainly due to higher gram and lentil production. Maize production surged sharply to 55.09 million tonnes, marking the first time output crossed the 50 million tonne milestone. Oilseed production remained largely stable at 43.06 million tonnes, although soybean production declined significantly while mustard output reached a record high.
However, cotton production is projected lower at 29.02 million bales compared to 29.72 million bales last year. Nutri-cereal production also declined by 5.4% due to lower output in millets and related crops. Government officials attributed the strong agricultural performance to continuous policy support, research initiatives by ICAR, and the expansion of climate-resilient farming technologies.
Record foodgrain production in 2025-26 is expected to strengthen India’s food security and cushion markets against potential weather-related risks during the upcoming monsoon season.
Source: Kedia Stocks & Commodities Research Pvt. Ltd.
