Published: 10 February 2026Rajasthan
Rajasthan Tops India's Wool Production with 47.5% Share; Chokla and Magra Breeds Drive Output
According to data highlighted in February 2026, Rajasthan has consolidated its position as India's largest wool-producing state, accounting for 16,013.50 thousand kilograms — approximately 47.53% of the country's total wool output of 33.69 million kilograms in financial year 2023-24. Jammu and Kashmir ranks second with 7,770 thousand kg (23.06%), followed by Gujarat (2,083.50 thousand kg, 6.18%), Maharashtra (1,601.28 thousand kg, 4.75%), and Himachal Pradesh (1,422.69 thousand kg, 4.22%).
Rajasthan's dominance stems from its vast arid and semi-arid grasslands suitable for sheep rearing, particularly the Chokla sheep (known as the 'Merino of India' for its fine carpet-grade wool) and Magra sheep found in the Bikaner-Nagaur region. The Sheep and Wool Development Board under the Rajasthan government implements breed improvement programmes, shearing camps, and wool marketing cooperatives.
India's wool sector supports approximately 1.5 crore shepherds and pastoral communities. Rajasthan's Pashmina, Merino-grade Chokla, and coarse-grade Malpura wools serve distinct market segments. Key wool-related institutions include the Central Sheep and Wool Research Institute (CSWRI) located at Avikanagar, Rajasthan, which conducts breed improvement research. The wool industry is also integral to Rajasthan's handicraft sector — particularly Jaipur's famous woollen carpet weaving industry.
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Frequently asked questions
Why does Rajasthan lead India's wool production and what is its share?
Rajasthan leads India's wool production due to its vast semi-arid landscape, long pastoral tradition, and large sheep population — the largest in the country. The state produces 16,013.50 thousand kg of wool, which is 47.5% of India's total wool output of approximately 33,714 thousand kg. The hot and dry climate of Rajasthan is naturally suited to sheep rearing, and the livelihoods of millions of nomadic and pastoral communities are centred on this industry.
What are the Chokla and Magra sheep breeds and why are they important for Rajasthan's wool economy?
The Chokla breed, often called the 'Merino of India', is prized for its fine-quality wool and is the primary wool-producing sheep of Rajasthan. The Magra breed, found mainly in the Bikaner and Nagaur regions, is known for producing coarser but durable wool suitable for carpets and blankets. Together, these two breeds drive the bulk of Rajasthan's wool output and are the focus of breed improvement programmes at CSWRI, Avikanagar.
What is CSWRI and where is it located?
The Central Sheep and Wool Research Institute (CSWRI) is India's premier research institution for sheep husbandry and wool science. It is located at Avikanagar in Tonk district, Rajasthan. CSWRI conducts research on breed improvement, disease management, nutrition, and wool quality. It develops improved sheep breeds and promotes mechanised shearing and quality grading to enhance the market value of Rajasthan wool. It functions under the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR).
Which states rank after Rajasthan in India's wool production, and how does India compare globally?
After Rajasthan (47.5%), the next major wool-producing states in India are Jammu & Kashmir and Gujarat. India's total wool production of approximately 33,714 thousand kg places it among the top wool-producing nations globally, though it lags behind Australia, China, and New Zealand in fine-wool production. India's wool is primarily used domestically in carpets, blankets, and shawls, with limited export volumes compared to global leaders.
What government schemes support wool production and wool farmers in Rajasthan?
Several schemes support Rajasthan's wool sector: (1) The Wool Development Board under the Ministry of Textiles runs mechanised shearing programmes to improve yield and wool quality; (2) CSWRI at Avikanagar provides improved breed rams to farmers through the Central Flock; (3) The Integrated Wool Development Programme promotes quality grading, primary processing, and market linkages; (4) The Rajasthan government's livestock schemes support nomadic pastoral communities (Rebari, Gujjar communities) who are primary sheep herders. These schemes aim to improve income and global competitiveness of Rajasthan wool.
