India has become the world’s largest rice producer, overtaking China in total output, as per news reports. Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan stated that India produced 150.18 million tonnes of rice, while China’s output stood at 145.28 million tonnes.

Government estimates suggest that rice production may rise further in the 2025–26 crop year. According to the third advance estimates released by the Agriculture Ministry, output is projected at a record 154.02 million tonnes.
Announcement at Agriculture Event…
The development was announced at an event in New Delhi where 184 improved crop varieties developed by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) were released.
The new varieties cover 25 field crops. These include 122 cereals, six pulse varieties, 13 oilseeds, 11 fodder crops, 6 sugarcane varieties, 24 cotton varieties, and 1 variety each of jute and tobacco.
New Varieties for Farmers…
The Agriculture Ministry said the newly developed varieties are for improving crop yields and quality. Officials have been asked to ensure that the seeds reach farmers without delay.
Chouhan noted that progress in high-yielding seed development has contributed to higher agricultural production.
Focus on Domestic Output…

During the event, the minister called for greater attention to pulses and oilseeds production. He said efforts should continue to increase domestic output in these segments and reduce dependence on imports.
The minister attributed recent advances in crop development to the work carried out through ICAR’s coordinated research projects, state and central agricultural universities, and private-sector seed developers.
Monsoon Watch Ahead of Kharif…
The government is preparing for the upcoming kharif sowing season amid concerns over weather-related risks. Authorities are monitoring the possibility of El Niño conditions, which can influence monsoon rainfall patterns.
Agriculture remains heavily dependent on seasonal rainfall despite improvements in irrigation and crop technology. As sowing activity begins across several states, the focus remains on seed availability, weather conditions, and crop preparedness.
Conclusion…
India’s rice output has reached a level higher than China’s, placing it at the top of global production rankings. The government is also promoting improved crop varieties for the coming seasons.
Source: AgroPages
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