India Achieves Record Foodgrain Production in 2024-25
India’s agricultural sector has made history by achieving a record foodgrain production of 3,309.18 LMT (lakhs of metric tons) for the 2024-25 crop year. This remarkable feat is attributed to the concerted efforts of the government, farmers, and advanced forecasting methods. The Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare has released its third advance estimates, providing a comprehensive picture of this achievement.
The record production is a testament to the Indian agricultural sector’s resilience and ability to adapt to changing climatic conditions, pests, and diseases. The country’s farmers have worked tirelessly to increase yields, improve crop varieties, and adopt sustainable agricultural practices. The government’s initiatives, such as the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) scheme, have also played a crucial role in supporting farmers and enhancing agricultural productivity.
Key Crops Show Significant Growth
The record production is driven by the growth of key crops like rice, wheat, and soybeans. Rice production has seen a significant surge, with an increase of 4.5% over the previous year to reach 114.79 LMT. Wheat production has also shown a remarkable growth of 6.2% to reach 107.76 LMT. Soybeans, another important crop, has recorded a growth of 5.1% to reach 14.33 LMT.
The growth in these key crops is a result of various factors, including improved irrigation facilities, increased use of technology, and better crop management practices. The government’s initiatives to improve soil health, increase the use of organic fertilizers, and promote crop diversification have also contributed to the growth.
Government Support Crucial
The government’s support has been instrumental in achieving this record production. The PM-KISAN scheme, launched in 2019, provides financial assistance to farmers to purchase seeds, fertilizers, and other inputs. The scheme has helped farmers to increase their production and income, leading to a significant growth in agricultural production.
Other government initiatives, such as the Soil Health Card Scheme and the National Mission on Sustainable Agriculture, have also contributed to the growth. The government’s efforts to improve infrastructure, such as the construction of roads, warehousing facilities, and cold chains, have also helped in reducing post-harvest losses and increasing the availability of produce.
Advanced Forecasting Methods
Advanced forecasting methods have also played a crucial role in achieving this record production. The use of satellite imaging, drones, and other technologies has enabled farmers to monitor crop health, detect pests and diseases early, and take timely action to prevent losses. The government’s decision to adopt a weather-based insurance scheme has also helped farmers to mitigate the impact of adverse weather conditions.
The Ministry’s Third Advance Estimates
The Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare has released its third advance estimates, which provide a comprehensive picture of the country’s agricultural production. The estimates are based on the data collected from the states and are used to plan for the next crop year.
The third advance estimates also provide an opportunity for the government to review its policies and initiatives to ensure that they are effective in achieving the desired outcomes. The estimates will also help in identifying areas that require attention and improvement, enabling the government to make informed decisions.
Conclusion
India’s record foodgrain production is a significant achievement, driven by the concerted efforts of the government, farmers, and advanced forecasting methods. The growth of key crops like rice, wheat, and soybeans has contributed to this achievement, and the government’s initiatives have played a crucial role in supporting farmers and enhancing agricultural productivity.
The Ministry’s third advance estimates will provide a complete picture of this achievement and will help in planning for the next crop year. The government’s efforts to improve infrastructure, promote sustainable agricultural practices, and support farmers will be crucial in maintaining this growth and ensuring food security for the country.
Source: https://ascendants.in/business-stories/india-achieves-record-foodgrain-production-in-2024-25/
