India Emerges as World’s Top Rice Producer

India has achieved a major milestone in agriculture by becoming the world’s largest producer of rice. This achievement reflects the success of improved farming practices, better seeds, and sustained policy support to farmers. Rising production has not only strengthened domestic food security but also enhanced India’s presence in global agricultural markets.

Why in the News?

Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan announced that India has overtaken China to become the world’s largest rice producer. India’s rice production has reached 150.18 million tonnes, surpassing China, which produced 145.28 million tonnes.

India’s Rise as the Largest Rice Producer

• India’s emergence as the top rice producer highlights the steady growth of its agricultural output.
• Improved irrigation, adoption of high-yielding varieties, and better extension services have played a key role.
• The minister noted that India is now supplying rice to overseas markets, strengthening its position as a major global food supplier and contributing to export earnings.

Launch of 184 Improved Crop Varieties

• At the event held in New Delhi, the minister unveiled 184 improved varieties of 25 field crops developed by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research.
• These include 122 cereals, 6 pulses, 13 oilseeds, 11 fodder crops, 6 sugarcane varieties, 24 cotton varieties, and one each of jute and tobacco.
• These varieties are designed to deliver higher yields and better quality produce.

Benefits for Farmers

• The newly released crop varieties are expected to help farmers achieve higher productivity and improved income.
• The Agriculture Minister stressed that officials must ensure these seeds reach farmers quickly.
• High-quality and climate-resilient seeds reduce crop losses, improve resistance to pests and weather stress, and support sustainable farming practices across diverse agro-climatic regions.

New Phase of Agricultural Revolution

• According to the minister, India has entered a new phase of agricultural revolution driven by high yielding and climate-resilient seeds.
• This progress is the result of collective efforts by ICAR’s All India Coordinated Research Projects, state and central agricultural universities and private seed companies.
• Such collaboration strengthens innovation and technology transfer in agriculture.

Key Summary At Glance

Question

Q1. India’s rice production, as announced recently, stands at:
A. 140.25 million tonnes
B. 145.28 million tonnes
C. 150.18 million tonnes