Published: 31 October 2025DD News / PIBEconomy
India Records Highest-Ever Foodgrain Production of 357.73 Million Tonnes in 2024-25
India recorded its highest-ever foodgrain production of 357.73 million tonnes in the agricultural year 2024-25, reflecting a growth of nearly 8 percent over the previous year. Agriculture and allied activities continue to be the backbone of the Indian rural economy, contributing approximately 16 percent to India's GDP in FY 2024-25 and providing livelihoods to more than 46 percent of the population. This achievement underscores the resilience of Indian agriculture despite climate variability.
As of August 2025, ₹3.90 lakh crore had been transferred to over 11 crore farmers through 20 installments under the PM-Kisan Samman Nidhi. India also retained its position as the world's largest milk producer, with output crossing 239.30 million tonnes in 2023-24, accounting for nearly one-fourth of global milk production. Fisheries production reached 195 lakh tonnes in 2024-25. Food processing exports crossed USD 49.4 billion as of July 2025, reflecting strong growth in value addition and agri-exports, reinforcing India's emerging role as a global food basket.
0Mains angle
Q: Examine how India's record foodgrain production of 357.73 million tonnes in 2024-25 and sustained agricultural growth reflect the sector's continuing centrality to the rural economy, GDP contribution, and employment.
Answer (50 words):
India recorded its highest-ever foodgrain production at 357.73 million tonnes in 2024-25, growing nearly 8 percent year-on-year. Agriculture contributes approximately 16 percent to GDP in FY 2024-25 and supports over 46 percent of the population. ₹3.90 lakh crore flowed to 11 crore farmers via PM-Kisan Samman Nidhi.
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Linked questionMedium
What was India's highest-ever foodgrain production recorded in the agricultural year 2024-25?
Explanation · Correct answer AIndia recorded its highest-ever foodgrain production of 357.73 million tonnes in 2024-25, reflecting nearly 8% growth over the previous year.
Frequently asked questions
What was India's total foodgrain production in 2024-25 and how significant is this figure?
India achieved a record foodgrain production of 357.73 million tonnes in 2024-25, an 8% growth year-on-year. This is the highest foodgrain output ever recorded in India's agricultural history.
What factors contributed to India's record foodgrain production in 2024-25?
The record output was driven by favourable monsoon rainfall leading to better irrigation and crop yields, combined with government support schemes such as PM-KISAN direct benefit transfer, subsidised fertilisers, and enhanced procurement through MSP operations.
What is the contribution of agriculture to India's GDP and employment?
Agriculture contributes approximately 16% to India's GDP and supports over 46% of the workforce. It remains the backbone of rural livelihoods and food security for India's 1.4 billion population.
What is India's global standing in foodgrain production?
India is the world's second-largest producer of rice, wheat, and pulses. The 2024-25 record output reinforces India's position as a global agricultural powerhouse and a key contributor to world food security.
What is the National Food Security Act and how does it relate to India's foodgrain production?
The National Food Security Act (NFSA), 2013 guarantees subsidised foodgrains to approximately 80 crore beneficiaries under the Public Distribution System (PDS). India's record production of 357.73 million tonnes provides the grain stocks needed to sustain this entitlement programme and ensure food security for the country's most vulnerable populations.
