India recorded a record rice production in the 2024-25 crop year, with kharif rice output reaching 1,206.79 lakh tonnes and rabi rice at 157.58 lakh tonnes. This marks a sharp increase in kharif rice by 74.20 lakh tonnes compared to the previous year.
The government procured 75.80 million tonnes of paddy, bolstering domestic stocks and ensuring farmer support. India lifted the export ban on broken rice on March 7, creating an export potential of over 2 million metric tonnes.
Domestic rice prices in India have remained largely stable despite a record harvest and sluggish global demand. The government’s steady procurement of paddy has supported price stability and strengthened foodgrain inventories.
India’s decision to lift the broken rice export ban on March 7 has opened the gates for over 2 million metric tonnes of potential exports, especially to Africa, China, and ethanol blending. However, the rising economic cost of rice handling is straining food subsidy finances, driven by higher MSP and logistical expenses.
