The Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare has released the Second Advance Estimates of major agricultural crop production (Kharif & Rabi) for the year 2024-25. Union Minister of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare and Rural Development, Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan, while approving and releasing the data, emphasized the government’s continuous efforts under Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s leadership to enhance agricultural productivity. He highlighted that various government schemes have significantly contributed to increased agricultural production.
Methodology of Estimates
The crop area statistics have been meticulously validated through a combination of sources, including state government data, Remote Sensing technology, Weekly Crop Weather Watch Group, and other relevant agencies. The Department of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare (DoA&FW) has also conducted stakeholder consultations with industry representatives and government departments to incorporate a broad spectrum of perspectives. The yield estimates are derived from Crop Cutting Experiments (CCEs), historical trends, and various other contributing factors.
Key Production Estimates
Comparison with Previous Years
The Kharif rice production has increased significantly to 1206.79 LMT from 1132.59 LMT in 2023-24, reflecting a growth of 74.20 LMT. Wheat production has also seen an increase of 21.38 LMT, reaching 1154.30 LMT. Similarly, soybean production has risen by 20.70 LMT to 151.32 LMT, and Kharif groundnut production has surged by 17.66 LMT to 104.26 LMT compared to the previous year.
Future Estimates and Adjustments
The production estimates of Kharif crops have been formulated based on Crop Cutting Experiments (CCEs), while certain CCEs for crops like Tur, Sugarcane, and Castor are still underway. The Rabi crop production estimates are provisional and will be refined in subsequent estimates as additional yield data becomes available. The production of summer crops will be included in the Third Advance Estimates.
Conclusion
The latest estimates reflect the government’s sustained efforts in supporting farmers and boosting agricultural output. The integration of technology, stakeholder consultations, and policy-driven incentives have contributed to record-breaking production in multiple crops. The upcoming Third Advance Estimates will provide a more comprehensive view, incorporating the summer crop production figures.