Agriculture Ministry Reports Record Wheat and Cotton Production in 2023-24

The Agriculture Ministry revised wheat production to a record 112.92 million tonnes for 2023-24, up from the previous record of 110.55 million tonnes. Rice and pulses also saw increases. However, the total foodgrain output is slightly lower compared to 2022-23 but exceeds the last five years' average.

In a significant development, the Agriculture Ministry has announced a record wheat production of 112.92 million tonnes for the 2023-24 crop year, according to its third estimate released on Tuesday. This revision represents an increase of 0.91 million tonnes from the second estimate and surpasses the previous record high of 110.55 million tonnes achieved in the 2022-23 crop year.

The ministry also reported that rice output is projected to rise to 136.7 million tonnes in 2023-24, up from 135.75 million tonnes the previous year. While foodgrain output is expected to be slightly lower at 328.85 million tonnes compared to 2022-23, it remains higher by 21.1 million tonnes from the average of the last five years.

Pulse production also shows promising figures, with tur output at 3.38 million tonnes, lentil at 1.75 million tonnes, and significant yields in oilseeds including soybeans and rapemustard. Among cash crops, cotton production is estimated at 32.52 million bales, and sugarcane at 442.52 million tonnes, reflecting robust agricultural productivity this year.