‘Foodgrain output likely at all-time high’

Higher crop estimates strengthen food security outlook while supporting rural incomes and agricultural resilience

IANS

New Delhi

India's foodgrain production is likely to touch a new record in the 2025-26 crop year, Union Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan said on Friday, while urging states to adopt a more farmer-centric approach to governance and agricultural development.

 Addressing the National Agriculture Conference -- Kharif Campaign 2026 in New Delhi, Chouhan said the country's total foodgrain production is estimated at around 376.56 million tonnes, the highest ever recorded, according to advance estimates.

 The minister said India has emerged as the world's largest rice producer and has also registered significant progress in the production of wheat, maize, pulses and oilseeds. He emphasised that the gains reflect the collective efforts of farmers, scientists, policymakers and state governments.Chouhan called on states to simplify procedures and ensure that governance delivers tangible benefits at the grassroots level. 

  "Rules and procedures exist for the convenience of farmers; farmers do not exist for rules," he said, stressing the need for outcome-oriented implementation of agricultural programmes.

  The minister held detailed discussions with state agriculture ministers, senior officials, scientists and progressive farmers on strategies to further strengthen the sector. 

 He urged states to actively monitor the implementation of key initiatives such as the Pulses Mission, Oilseeds Mission and Cotton Mission to ensure timely and measurable results. Highlighting future priorities, Chouhan said India must continue to strengthen food security while also focusing on increasing farmers' incomes, improving farm profitability and ensuring nutritional security.  He urged agriculture ministers to personally lead initiatives aimed at accelerating growth and improving productivity.

   The minister also called upon scientists to undertake faster and more practical research aligned with farmers' requirements. 

 Particular emphasis was placed on developing short-duration and climate-resilient crop varieties, especially for tur, soybean and oilseeds.

  He further stressed the effective utilisation of Soil Health Cards, saying they should become practical tools that help farmers identify nutrient deficiencies and optimise fertiliser usage rather than remaining merely official documents. According to Chouhan, the strong participation of state governments at the conference transformed the event into a "Team India" platform focused on advancing Indian agriculture and ensuring sustainable growth in the sector.

   The minister also stressed the importance of technology-driven agriculture and greater coordination between the Centre and states to improve productivity and sustainability. He said modern farming practices, efficient water management and the adoption of improved seed varieties will play a crucial role in maintaining growth in agricultural output. 

  Chouhan noted that the government remains committed to supporting farmers through various schemes and policy initiatives aimed at enhancing income, reducing production risks and strengthening market access.