India sets new grain production record on back of favorable weather conditions
This marks an increase of nearly 22 million tonnes from the previous year, driven by improved weather conditions that significantly boosted harvests of rice, wheat, and corn
INDIA – India is on track to achieve a new milestone in food grain production, with output reaching a record 353.96 million tonnes in the 2024-25 marketing year.
This marks an increase of nearly 22 million tonnes from the previous year, driven by improved weather conditions that significantly boosted harvests of rice, wheat, and corn, according to the latest report by the Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) of the US Department of Agriculture (USDA).
The strong performance is attributed to timely monsoon rains and the absence of major weather or pest disruptions during critical crop development stages. Looking ahead, the FAS projects another year of high output in 2025-26, particularly for wheat and rice, owing to an early and above-average 2025 monsoon season.
“The 2025 monsoon rains arrived on the coast of India’s southernmost state, Kerala, on May 24, eight days earlier than usual, marking the earliest onset in 16 years,” the FAS report noted. “
Wheat production is estimated to rise to a new high of 117.5 million tonnes in 2025-26, up 4% from 113.3 million tonnes the previous year. The boost stems from timely planting and optimal growing conditions throughout the season.
Similarly, rice output is forecast to rise slightly to 150 million tonnes in 2025-26, up from 149 million tonnes. India’s rice export volume is projected to grow modestly to 25 million tonnes, assuming current export policies and pricing parity remain unchanged.
Corn, however, is expected to see a slight drop in output. The USDA projects 2025-26 corn production at 42 million tonnes, down from an estimated 42.6 million tonnes in the current year. This follows recent upward revisions based on improved planting and weather conditions in 2024-25.
Despite the record production, the Indian government remains cautious about domestic market stability. Rising concerns over speculative stockpiling and hoarding prompted authorities to impose stock limits on wheat as of May 27.
These limits, effective until March 31, 2026, cap wheat inventories at 3,000 tonnes for traders/wholesalers, 10 tonnes per retail outlet for retailers, and 70% of monthly installed capacity for processors.
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