First survey report estimates domestic production of about 1100 lakh tonnes of wheat

04-Mar-2025 05:15 PM

The report from the conclave organized by the Roller Flour Millers Federation of India highlights promising estimates for wheat production in India during the 2024-25 Rabi season.

Wheat production is expected to rise by 8.2% compared to the 2023-24 season, with a projected total of around 1,100 lakh tonnes.

This increase is attributed to an expansion in the sowing area and a shift to wheat varieties more resilient to adverse weather conditions.

The first industry estimate puts domestic production at approximately 1,098.50 lakh tonnes for the current season, a significant improvement from the previous season's 1,057.90 lakh tonnes.

However, it’s important to note that the Union Agriculture Ministry had earlier projected a record production of 1,132.90 lakh tonnes for the 2023-24 season, which was much higher than the industry’s forecast.

Weather conditions, particularly the high temperatures in February 2025 and the likelihood of continued heat in March, may have some adverse effects on wheat production.

Despite this, the Federation remains optimistic, citing the positive impact of good rainfall from western disturbances in key wheat-producing regions and the cultivation of climate-resistant wheat varieties.

Additionally, there has been a notable increase in the sowing area from 312 lakh hectares in the previous Rabi season to a record 328 lakh hectares this year.

While Uttar Pradesh is expected to see a 2% increase in yield rates, concerns have been raised about possible crop damage due to hailstorms in key wheat-growing states such as Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh.

Despite these potential challenges, the overall outlook for India's wheat production remains positive, with expectations to reach the 1,100 lakh tonnes target if weather conditions remain favorable in March