Context:
India has overtaken China to become the world’s largest rice producer in 2024–25, marking a major milestone in agricultural productivity and food security.
Key Highlights:
- Production Data & Announcement
- India’s rice output reached 150.18 million tonnes in 2024–25.
- China’s rice production stood at 145.28 million tonnes.
- Announcement made by the Union Agriculture Minister at a national event.
- Seed & Crop Development Initiatives
- Release of 184 new varieties across 25 crops:
- 122 cereals, including rice and wheat
- 24 cotton varieties
- Focus on high-yielding, climate-resilient, and region-specific seeds.
- Role of National Seeds Corporation (NSC)
- NSC declared a ₹33.26 crore dividend for FY 2024–25 (30%).
- Indicates strong financial health and effective public-sector contribution.
- Key role in quality seed multiplication and distribution.
Relevant Prelims Points:
- Rice: Staple crop; India is also a leading global exporter.
- High-Yielding Varieties (HYVs): Improve productivity, reduce per-unit land pressure.
- National Seeds Corporation: PSU under Ministry of Agriculture; ensures certified seed availability.
- Food Security Link: Higher output strengthens buffer stocks and PDS stability.
Relevant Mains Points:
- Economic Significance: Enhances farmers’ income, reduces import dependence, and boosts agri-exports.
- Technological Advancement: Improved seed technology and agronomic practices drive productivity gains.
- Geographical Aspect: Reflects effective utilisation of India’s diverse agro-climatic zones.
- Sustainability Concerns: Rice cultivation is water-intensive and linked to methane emissions.
- Way Forward:
- Promote water-efficient techniques like SRI and micro-irrigation.
- Diversify cropping patterns in water-stressed regions.
- Strengthen last-mile seed delivery and extension services.
- Integrate productivity gains with climate-smart agriculture.
UPSC Relevance:
- GS 3: Agriculture, food security, economy
- GS 1: Agricultural geography
- Prelims: Crop production data, agricultural institutions