India advances agricultural growth with record production and exports

India has achieved a record foodgrain output of 357.73 million metric tonnes in the 2024–25 agricultural year, marking an increase of 25.43 million tonnes compared to the previous year. The growth reflects sustained improvements in productivity, enhanced input management, and strengthened institutional support for farmers, according to an official statement, reports IANS, a partner of TV BRICS.

The rise in output was driven by higher production of key crops, including rice, wheat, maize, and coarse cereals such as millets. India remains the world’s second-largest producer of rice and wheat, with production reaching 150.18 million tonnes and 117.94 million tonnes, respectively, while also maintaining global leadership in pulses and millet production.

Agricultural exports have shown steady expansion, with earnings increasing from US$34.5 billion in FY20 to US$51.1 billion in FY25, representing a compound annual growth rate of 8.2 per cent. In FY25, agri-food exports totalled US$49.43 billion, accounting for 11.2 per cent of overall exports, with a growing share of processed food products indicating a shift towards higher value-added goods.

Horticulture has also emerged as a key driver of sectoral transformation. Total production reached 362.08 million tonnes in 2024–25, reflecting a significant increase from previous years. The output includes 114.51 million tonnes of fruits, 219.67 million tonnes of vegetables, and 33.54 million tonnes from other horticultural crops.

These developments underline India’s expanding role in global food and nutrition security, supported by increasing demand for climate-resilient crops across international markets.