Production volume of cereals India FY 2002-2024

More than 304 million metric tons of cereals were estimated to be produced in India at the end of financial year 2024. These cereals include rice, wheat, barley, millets and ragi among others. The south Asian country was the second-largest producer of rice and wheat across the world.

Regional distribution of cereal production

Rice and wheat are the most important sources of cereals in India. Rice production in the country has shown steady growth in recent years. In 2023, Uttar Pradesh recorded the highest production of foodgrains and wheat, while West Bengal led in terms of rice production. Cereals also make up a significant portion of India's exports every year.

Increasing focus on millets and nutri-cereals

In addition to its major cereals, India also cultivates coarse cereals, including millets, maize, and sorghum. Millet production has been on the rice in recent years, with Maharashtra recording the highest jowar (sorghum) production, while Rajasthan produced the most bajra (pearl millet) in 2024. Promoting a variety of millets and nutri-cereals has seen a push from the government in recent years, amplified in 2023 with the UN’s International year of Millets initiative.