Wool remains a vital natural fibre for India’s textile and handicraft industries. From carpets and blankets to shawls and industrial use, wool supports livelihoods across rural India. In 2026, India continues to be among the world’s leading sheep-rearing nations. A closer look at state-wise data shows clear leaders in wool output, growth trends, and regional specialization.
Top Wool Producing States in India
- The ranking of top wool producing states in India has gained attention as updated data highlights Rajasthan’s clear leadership in production.
- India has the second-largest sheep population globally, with 77.4 million sheep, and ranks ninth in global wool production.
- In FY24, total wool production stood at 33.69 million kg, spread across organized and unorganized sectors. The latest rankings also show notable growth trends, with Punjab recording the highest annual growth rate.
Top 10 Wool Producing States in India (2026)
| Rank | State | Production (Thousand kg) |
| 1 | Rajasthan | 16,013.50 |
| 2 | Jammu & Kashmir | 7,770 |
| 3 | Karnataka | 6,472 |
| 4 | Telangana | 4,422 |
| 5 | Gujarat | 2,083 |
| 6 | Maharashtra | 1,601.28 |
| 7 | Himachal Pradesh | 1,422.69 |
| 8 | Uttar Pradesh | 942 |
| 9 | Andhra Pradesh | 778.23 |
| 10 | Haryana | 674.61 |
Rajasthan: India’s Largest Wool Producer
- Rajasthan ranks first among the top wool producing states in India, producing 16,013.50 thousand kg, which is 47.53% of India’s total wool output.
- The arid climate and wide grasslands make Rajasthan ideal for sheep rearing.
- Indigenous breeds like Marwari and Chokla yield coarse wool, mainly used in carpets, rugs, and blankets.
- Rajasthan’s dominance makes it the backbone of India’s wool industry.
Jammu & Kashmir: Hub of Fine Quality Wool
- At second place among the top wool producing states in India is Jammu and Kashmir, producing 7,770 thousand kg (23.06%).
- The cold climate supports fine wool breeds like Changthangi and Merino.
- Wool from this region is famous for shawls, apparel, and handicrafts. Quality, rather than quantity alone, gives Jammu & Kashmir a special position in India’s wool sector.
Karnataka and Telangana: Rising Wool Producers
- Karnataka ranks third with 6,472 thousand kg, producing mainly medium to coarse wool used for rugs and durries.
- Telangana follows at fourth with 4,422 thousand kg. Telangana’s rise is linked to organized sheep-rearing schemes and government support for shepherd communities, making it one of the fastest-growing wool producing states in India.
Gujarat, Maharashtra and Himachal Pradesh
- Gujarat produced 2,083.50 thousand kg, mainly coarse wool from semi-arid regions.
- Maharashtra follows with 1,601.28 thousand kg, largely from drought-prone areas.
- Himachal Pradesh produced 1,422.69 thousand kg, benefiting from cold climates and high-altitude grazing, with wool used for warm clothing and handicrafts.
Uttar Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh and Haryana
- Among the remaining top wool producing states in India, Uttar Pradesh produced 942 thousand kg, mainly for local use.
- Andhra Pradesh recorded 778.23 thousand kg, with coarse wool used for mats and carpets.
- Haryana ranks tenth with 674.61 thousand kg, where sheep rearing is practiced alongside agriculture.
Growth Rate and Types of Wool in India
- In terms of annual growth rate, Punjab recorded the highest growth at 22.04%, followed by Tamil Nadu at 17.19%.
- India produces three main types of wool Carpet Grade (85%), Apparel Grade (5%), and Coarser Grade (10%).
- Ewes contribute over 71% of total wool output, making them central to production.
Question
Q. Which state is the largest wool producer in India?
A. Jammu & Kashmir
B. Karnataka
C. Rajasthan
D. Gujarat
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