India’s Resilient Production Systems in Agriculture

India’s agricultural sector remains a cornerstone of the economy, supporting rural livelihoods, ensuring food security, and contributing to economic resilience. It accounts for nearly one-fifth of India’s gross value added, employs about 46.1% of the workforce, and sustains around 55% of the population.

In 2024–25, India achieved a record foodgrain production of 357.73 million metric tonnes, an increase of 25.43 million tonnes over the previous year. Horticulture production also reached 362.08 million tonnes, reflecting strong growth in allied sectors.

India is the world’s second-largest producer of rice and wheat, with major rice-producing states including Uttar Pradesh, Telangana, and West Bengal, while wheat production is concentrated in Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and Punjab. The country is the largest producer of pulses, with an output of 25.68 million tonnes, led by Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Rajasthan, and also ranks first globally in millet production.

Additionally, India is the second-largest producer of fruits and vegetables, the largest producer of dry onions contributing about 25% of global output, and ranks first in coconut production. It also holds the second position globally in the production of sugarcane, cotton, and tea.

Agricultural exports have shown steady growth, rising from USD 34.5 billion in FY20 to USD 51.1 billion in FY25, registering a compound annual growth rate of 8.2%. Overall, India’s agriculture sector reflects both large-scale production capacity and increasing global competitiveness.

Source: PIB