In a major milestone for Indian agriculture, India has officially become the world’s largest rice producer, surpassing China with a record output of 150.18 million tonnes in the 2024-25 crop cycle. Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan announced the achievement on January 5, framing it as a historic moment that reflects years of policy focus, scientific innovation and farmers’ hard work.
India overtakes china in rice production
Speaking at an event in New Delhi, Chouhan revealed that India’s rice output now exceeds China’s estimated production of 145.28 million tonnes. The minister described this shift not only as a numeric milestone but as evidence of India’s evolution from a nation once concerned about food shortages to a leading global food supplier. He noted that abundant foodgrain stocks and rising productivity have strengthened India’s food security and export capabilities.
New seed varieties to boost productivity
The announcement coincided with the release of 184 new high-yielding and climate-resilient crop varieties developed by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR). These include improved seeds across 25 crops, such as cereals, oilseeds, pulses, fodder and cotton. Chouhan emphasised that these advanced varieties will help farmers achieve higher yields, better quality produce and increased income, while also reinforcing resilience against environmental stresses like drought and soil salinity.
Driving factors behind the milestone
Experts and officials attribute India’s rice production surge to a combination of scientific support, expanded seed technology and sustained policy efforts. Over 3,236 high-yielding varieties have been approved under the current government, outpacing earlier periods, and collaboration between research institutions, state universities and private seed firms has helped bring innovations directly to farmers’ fields.
Impact on farmers and markets
With India now leading in rice output, the country’s role in global food markets is further solidified. Increased production supports India’s bid to expand rice exports, offering opportunities in international markets. At the same time, officials emphasised the need for continued focus on other crops such as pulses and oilseeds to ensure balanced agricultural growth and improved rural livelihoods.
Significance of the achievement
This new ranking ahead of China highlights India’s agricultural transformation and growing influence in global food systems. It reflects not only impressive production figures but also the broader success of targeted agricultural reforms, scientific investment and farmers’ adaptation to innovative practices. As India celebrates this achievement, the focus now includes ensuring sustainability, enhancing farmer support and maintaining momentum across crop sectors.