India Achieves 6.81% Growth in Kharif 2024 Foodgrain Output: High Production in Rice, Maize, and Jowar – Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan
09 April 2025, New Delhi: Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan addressed the media during the National Agriculture Conference – Kharif 2025 Campaign, where he outlined the Ministry’s preparations and strategies for the upcoming Kharif sowing season.
Minister Chouhan announced that due to the commendable performance of states and the relentless efforts of farmers, the total area under Kharif crops has increased. The rice cultivation area has expanded to 43.42 million hectares for 2024-25, with production reaching 120.68 million tonnes. Similarly, maize has been cultivated over 8.44 million hectares, producing 24.81 million tonnes.
He highlighted that total foodgrain production during Kharif 2024 has increased by 6.81% compared to the previous year, with rice, maize, and jowar (sorghum) showing notably higher yields. Despite adverse climate conditions, foodgrain production continues to grow steadily.
Seed Availability Surplus
The Minister stated that 178.48 lakh quintals of seeds are available for the Kharif season, exceeding the requirement of 164.25 lakh quintals. He noted that the seed replacement rate is improving, which is a positive development for crop productivity.
Fertilizer Supply Ensured
Chouhan assured that adequate supplies of urea, DAP, and NPK fertilizers have been arranged for Indian farmers. He emphasized that despite rising global prices, subsidies are continuing to support farmers’ access to fertilizers.
Natural Farming Mission
To counter the adverse effects of chemical fertilizers, the Government of India has launched a Natural Farming Mission. Chouhan revealed that 33 states have submitted their Annual Action Plans, and 15,560 clusters will be developed across 7.78 lakh hectares to promote natural farming.
Indus Waters Treaty Reform
The Minister informed that the discriminatory Indus Waters Treaty has been annulled by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He said this step will benefit Indian farmers by allowing more water availability, boosting productivity, improving flood control, and ensuring better access to electricity in rural areas.
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