Govt Sets 362.5 Million Tonne Foodgrain Target for 2025-26

India foodgrain target 2025-26

The Centre has announced an ambitious foodgrain production target of 362.5 million tonnes for the 2025–26 crop year, with special emphasis on ensuring adequate supplies of wheat, rice, pulses, and oilseeds.

Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan revealed the target during the national Rabi conference, stressing that there will be no shortage of seeds and fertilizers for the upcoming sowing season. Against the requirement of 22.9 million tonnes of seed, nearly the entire amount is already in place.

Foodgrain Production on the Rise

India’s foodgrain output touched 353.96 million tonnes in 2024–25, an increase of 21.66 million tonnes (6.5%) over the previous year. With this momentum, the government has now raised the bar, aiming for a higher yield in the upcoming season.

Of the total target, 119 million tonnes has been set for wheat alone, marking a 3.47% jump compared to last year. Wheat, the most important Rabi crop, will be sown from late October to November. Other key crops for the Rabi season include barley, gram, and lentils.

Focus on Pulses and Oilseeds

Alongside cereals, the government has placed greater focus on diversifying production. For the 2025–26 Rabi season, targets include:

16.57 million tonnes of pulses , 15.07 million tonnes of oilseeds

This push is expected to strengthen India’s food security and reduce dependence on imports.

Campaign to Support Farmers

To ensure farmers are equipped with the right knowledge and resources, the government will roll out the Vikshit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan from October 3. Over 2,000 teams will work at the grassroots level to provide timely advice and encourage the adoption of better farming practices.

Government’s Assurance

Highlighting India’s achievements in wheat and rice production, the minister said the nation has reached global benchmarks, but there is still a pressing need to expand efforts in pulses and oilseeds. In addition, the government assured that flood-hit states will receive extra support to safeguard Rabi crops.