CEREAL PRODUCTION HIKE

Why in the news?

  • India’s cereal production has significantly increased, but a notable portion is now diverted to processed foods, animal feed, and fuel rather than direct household consumption.
  • This shift raises concerns about the accuracy of production estimates and the impact on domestic food security.

Key Highlights:

  • Cereal production in India surged from 196.4 mt to 303.6 mt in two decades, while direct household consumption declined.
  • Official data shows a widening gap of 151 mt annually between production and household consumption.
  • In 2022-23, 30.7 mt of cereals, including rice and wheat, were exported due to excess production.
 Source: TH
About cereal production in India

  • Cereals constitute approximately 54% of India’s total agricultural output, placing the country third globally with an 11% share of global production.
  • Indian cereals are categorized into coarse grains and fine grains, each suited to specific soil and climatic conditions.