Overview of Kharif Production Estimates 

The Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare has released the first advance estimates for Kharif crop production for the year 2024-25, projecting a record foodgrain output of 1647.05 lakh metric tonnes (LMT). This is an increase of 89.37 LMT compared to last year and 124.59 LMT above the average Kharif production levels. The bumper production has been attributed to favourable growing conditions and advancements in data collection, including the use of the new Digital Crop Survey (DCS). 

Enhanced Data Collection through Digital Crop Survey 

For the first time, production estimates have incorporated data from the Digital Crop Survey (DCS) conducted under the Digital Agriculture Mission in collaboration with State Governments. This technology-driven approach, currently in use in states like Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, and Odisha, covers 100% of districts in the Kharif 2024 season. By replacing traditional manual methods, the DCS is expected to produce more accurate area estimates, particularly for high-yield crops such as rice in Uttar Pradesh, and contribute to a clearer picture of crop production across states. 

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Breakdown of Major Crop Estimates 

According to the estimates: 

• Rice Production: The Kharif rice yield is anticipated to reach 1199.34 LMT, up by 66.75 LMT from the previous year, and 114.83 LMT higher than the long-term average. 

• Maize: Expected to achieve a record production of 245.41 LMT. 

• Nutri and Coarse Cereals: Production is projected at 378.18 LMT. 

• Pulses: Total production of Kharif pulses stands at 69.54 LMT, including Tur (35.02 LMT), Urad (12.09 LMT), and Moong (13.83 LMT). 

• Oilseeds: The estimated output is 257.45 LMT, with Groundnut production at 103.60 LMT and Soybean at 133.60 LMT. 

Other Key Crop Projections 

Sugarcane production for 2024-25 is estimated to be 4399.30 LMT, reflecting a steady yield in one of India’s crucial cash crops. Cotton production is expected to reach 299.26 lakh bales (170 kg each), while Jute and Mesta are projected at 84.56 lakh bales (180 kg each). 

Validation and Stakeholder Consultation 

The crop estimates were calculated based on data gathered from multiple sources, including state-level inputs, remote sensing, and consultations with stakeholders in the agriculture sector. By integrating these perspectives with traditional crop weather monitoring, the Ministry has sought to enhance the accuracy and relevance of the estimates. The yield figures will undergo further revisions as actual yields are recorded through Crop Cutting Experiments (CCEs) during harvest. 

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