


{"id":67513,"date":"2026-07-09T16:40:09","date_gmt":"2026-07-09T11:10:09","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/current-affairs\/?p=67513"},"modified":"2026-07-10T11:28:37","modified_gmt":"2026-07-10T05:58:37","slug":"rice-cultivation-in-india","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/current-affairs\/rice-cultivation-in-india\/","title":{"rendered":"Rice Cultivation in India, History, Map, Area, Producing States"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Rice is an integral component of India\u2019s dietary and agricultural identity. As the staple food for the majority of the Indian population, it occupies a central position not only in daily consumption but also in the nation\u2019s agricultural economy. India stands as the second-largest producer of rice in the world, after China, and simultaneously holds the position of being the largest exporter of rice globally. In this article, we are going to cover Rice Cultivation in India, its types, growth seasons, climate conditions, production and productivity as well as the trade and export of rice.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><strong>Rice Cultivation in India<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Rice cultivation in India is not just an agricultural activity. It is a cultural, economic, and ecological cornerstone. The country\u2019s consistent position as a leading producer and exporter demonstrates its agricultural strength and global significance. However, challenges like water scarcity, soil degradation, declining productivity, and climatic variability demand innovative and sustainable interventions. Practices like SRI and DSR, coupled with improved irrigation efficiency, organic inputs, and technology-driven farming, hold the key to a resilient future for India\u2019s rice sector.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><strong>Read About: <a href=\"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/current-affairs\/silver-production-in-india\/\" target=\"_blank\">Silver Production in India<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n<h2><strong>What is Rice?<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Rice forms the dietary backbone of India. A significant proportion of the population, especially in eastern, southern, and north-eastern regions, depends on rice as their staple food. The crop is deeply interwoven with India\u2019s socio-economic structure, rural livelihoods, and cultural traditions.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Being a <a href=\"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/upsc-exam\/kharif-and-rabi-crops\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Kharif crop<\/strong><\/a>, rice requires high temperatures (above 25\u00b0C), high humidity, and annual rainfall exceeding 100 cm for optimum growth. However, with irrigation facilities, it can also thrive in areas with lower rainfall. It is most commonly cultivated in states such as West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Bihar, Odisha, and Assam.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Unpolished rice has a higher nutritional value, being rich in Vitamins A, B, and calcium, whereas polished rice loses much of these essential nutrients during milling. Besides its nutritional importance, rice cultivation also supports mixed <a href=\"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/current-affairs\/farming-system\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>farming systems<\/strong><\/a>, integrating crops and livestock to enhance sustainability and income.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><strong>Types of Rice<\/strong><\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Rice varieties are diverse, catering to different tastes, climates, and culinary preferences. Broadly, rice can be classified into three major categories based on grain size:<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Long-grain rice: Varieties like Basmati and Jasmine rice fall under this category. They are slender, aromatic, and become fluffy when cooked.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Medium-grain rice: Examples include Arborio and Calrose rice. These grains are shorter and have a tender, moist texture.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Short-grain rice: Varieties like Japanese sushi rice and glutinous rice are plump and sticky.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In addition to these, there are specialty varieties:<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Brown rice, which retains its bran layer, making it more nutritious and fiber-rich.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Black rice, known for its high antioxidant content and striking color.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Wild rice, technically a grass seed, with a nutty flavor and chewy texture.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Each type contributes uniquely to culinary traditions worldwide, reinforcing rice\u2019s versatility and global importance.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Agro-Biodiversity Strength: India possesses around 60,000 identified rice varieties out of nearly 1,23,000 varieties recorded globally, reflecting exceptional genetic diversity and agricultural heritage.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Important Varieties: Popular varieties include Basmati, Gobindobhog of West Bengal, Joha Rice of Assam, and Navara Rice of Kerala. Climate-resilient varieties include Kamala and Pusa DST Rice-1.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><b>Rice Cultivation in India History<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Rice Cultivation in India has a long history that reflects the country\u2019s agricultural evolution and rich biodiversity.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Archaeological findings indicate that rice was domesticated in the Indian subcontinent during the <a href=\"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/upsc-exam\/indus-valley-civilization\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Indus Valley Civilisation<\/strong><\/a>, making India one of the earliest centres of rice cultivation.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Earlier assumptions that rice cultivation originated only in China have been challenged by evidence showing parallel domestication processes in different regions, including the Indian subcontinent.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Unlike China\u2019s predominantly winter rice cultivation, the Indus Valley practised both summer and winter cultivation, contributing to the emergence of Oryza sativa indica.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Agricultural policies after the Green Revolution increasingly promoted a limited number of high-yielding varieties, reducing the cultivation of many traditional rice varieties.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><strong>Rice Cultivation in India Seasons<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Rice is primarily a Kharif crop, grown during the southwest monsoon season (June to October). However, due to India\u2019s diverse agro-climatic conditions, it can also be cultivated in Rabi and Summer seasons under assured irrigation.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong>Kharif Season:<\/strong> The main rice-growing period, where sowing begins with the onset of the monsoon (June-July) and harvesting takes place between October and December.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong>Rabi Season:<\/strong> In well-irrigated areas, particularly in southern and eastern India, rice is cultivated during the Rabi season (November\u2013April).<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong>Summer Crop: <\/strong>Found mainly in deltaic regions such as West Bengal and the <a href=\"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/upsc-exam\/krishna-river-system\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Krishna<\/strong><\/a>-Godavari delta, where water availability throughout the year permits multiple cropping cycles.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Thus, India\u2019s rice cultivation calendar allows for two to three crops per year in regions with abundant water, supporting high agricultural productivity and rural employment.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><strong>Rice Cultivation in India Climatic Conditions<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p>Rice is primarily a Kharif crop sown during June-July and harvested between November and December. In southern and eastern India, it is also cultivated during Rabi and Zaid seasons.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Rice is a tropical crop that thrives under hot and humid conditions. The ideal temperature range for rice cultivation is between 25\u00b0C and 35\u00b0C, along with annual rainfall exceeding 150 cm. Hot and humid conditions support healthy crop growth and grain formation.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In eastern and southern India, where humidity and warmth prevail for much of the year, farmers can cultivate rice two or even three times annually. In contrast, northern and hilly regions can only support one crop per year due to the onset of cold winters.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A defining feature of rice cultivation is its semi-aquatic nature. The crop requires standing water (10-12 cm deep) during most of its growing season. The waterlogged condition helps control weeds and ensures nutrient availability.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Rice can be categorized based on topography and water availability:<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Wet or Lowland Rice: Grown in flooded plains with ample rainfall or irrigation (e.g., <a href=\"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/current-affairs\/indo-gangetic-plains\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Indo-Gangetic plains<\/strong><\/a>, coastal deltas).<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dry or Upland Rice:\u00a0 Cultivated in areas with less rainfall or on terraced slopes (e.g., north-eastern hills).<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Below-Sea-Level Cultivation: Unique to the Kuttanad region of Kerala, where rice is grown on reclaimed land below sea level using special bunds.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The 100 cm isohyet marks the natural limit for rainfed rice cultivation. However, irrigation advancements have enabled cultivation even in regions like Punjab, Haryana, and Western Uttar Pradesh, where rainfall is relatively scarce.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><strong>Requirements for Rice Cultivation in India<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p>The requirement for the Rice Cultivation in India include:<\/p>\n<h3><strong>Rice Cultivation in India Soil Requirements:<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Rice cultivation is best suited to clayey or loamy soils found in river valleys, floodplains, deltas, and coastal regions, where water stagnation is possible.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Clayey soils possess excellent water-holding capacity, making them ideal for lowland rice in areas such as coastal Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Telangana.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Loamy soils, found in the Punjab, Haryana, and North Indian plains, require more frequent irrigation due to lower water retention.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Rice can tolerate a wide pH range, growing in both acidic and alkaline soils, which broadens its geographical adaptability.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><b>Rice Cultivation Water Requirement:<\/b><\/h3>\n<p>Rice is a highly water-intensive crop requiring approximately 3,000 to 4,000 litres of water for producing one kilogram of rice, making irrigation management extremely important.<\/p>\n<h3><strong>Rice Cultivation Labour Requirement:<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Rice remains a labour-intensive crop, particularly in traditional cultivation methods. From nursery preparation and transplanting to weeding and harvesting, each stage demands substantial manual labour. Hence, rice cultivation is concentrated in densely populated areas where human labour is readily available. <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In mechanized regions like Punjab and Haryana, the labour demand is met through migrant workers from Bihar and eastern Uttar Pradesh, ensuring timely sowing and harvesting.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><strong>Methods of Rice Cultivation in India<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">India has remarkable diversity in its rice cultivation techniques, adapted to varying topographies, climates, and resource availability.\u00a0Farmers mainly use transplantation, broadcasting, and drilling techniques. Modern methods such as Direct Seeded Rice (DSR) and Alternate Wetting and Drying (AWD) are increasingly promoted for water conservation.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong>Broadcasting Method:<\/strong> Seeds are sown by hand directly over dry soil. This method is simple and suitable for areas with low fertility or labour shortages, but yields are relatively low.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong>Drilling Method:<\/strong> Involves ploughing and simultaneous sowing of seeds. Practised mainly in dry regions of peninsular India, this technique provides better soil contact than broadcasting but remains less productive.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong>Transplantation Method:<\/strong> The most widely used and effective method in India. Seeds are first raised in nurseries, and the seedlings (about 25\u201330 days old) are transplanted to the main field. Though labour-intensive, it ensures better plant spacing, weed control, and high yields.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong>Japanese Method:<\/strong> A mechanised and scientific technique involving the use of machines for transplanting, fertilising, and weeding. Heavy doses of fertilisers are used, achieving very high productivity. While common in developed countries, it is limited in India due to small farm sizes.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong>System of Rice Intensification (SRI):<\/strong> A modern innovation promoting sustainable rice farming. In SRI, young seedlings are planted singly at wider spacing, soil is kept moist but not flooded, and organic manure is used instead of chemical fertilisers. The method enhances root growth, reduces water use, and increases yield. SRI is not a fixed technique but a flexible approach that optimizes land, water, and labour efficiency.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong>Direct Seeding of Rice (DSR):<\/strong> An emerging technique where seeds are directly sown in the field using drills, eliminating the need for transplanting. DSR reduces labour and water usage and shortens the crop cycle, making it suitable for water-scarce regions like Punjab and Haryana.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><strong>Rice Production in India<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">India has emerged as the world&#8217;s largest rice producer and exporter, contributing significantly to global food supplies and agricultural trade.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Production Status: India produced a record 150.18 million tonnes of rice during 2024-25, accounting for more than 28% of global rice production and strengthening its leadership in international rice markets.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Area Under Cultivation: Rice occupies approximately 51-52 million hectares, making it the largest cropped area in India and demonstrating its importance in the national agricultural landscape.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">India contributes about 20% of global rice production, showing its important role in ensuring both domestic and international food security.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><b>Largest Rice Producer in India State Wise<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The state wise analysis of Rice Cultivation in India has been provided below:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Highest Rice Producer State in India: West Bengal contributes nearly 15% of India&#8217;s total rice production, benefiting from fertile alluvial soils, abundant rainfall, and extensive river basin cultivation.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Second Highest Rice Producer State in India: Uttar Pradesh accounts for around 12% of national rice production, supported by the fertile Ganga basin and extensive cultivation across eastern and central districts.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Third Largest Rice Producer State in India: Punjab contributes nearly 10% of India&#8217;s rice output and records the highest yield levels because of complete irrigation coverage, advanced mechanisation, and improved farming practices.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">High-Yield States: After Punjab, Tamil Nadu and Telangana rank among the highest-yielding rice-producing states due to efficient irrigation systems and adoption of modern cultivation technologies.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Regional Distribution: Major rice-producing belts include the <a href=\"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/current-affairs\/brahmaputra-river-system\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Brahmaputra<\/strong><\/a> basin, <a href=\"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/current-affairs\/ganga-river-system\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Ganga<\/strong><\/a> basin, <a href=\"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/upsc-exam\/mahanadi-river-system\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Mahanadi<\/strong><\/a> basin, and the <a href=\"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/upsc-exam\/godavari-river-system\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Godavari<\/strong><\/a>, Krishna, and <a href=\"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/upsc-exam\/kaveri-river-system\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Cauvery<\/strong><\/a> delta regions across eastern, northeastern, and southern India.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<table style=\"width: 94.1873%;\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"tb-color\" style=\"text-align: center; width: 11.3226%;\" colspan=\"4\"><strong>Rice Production in India<\/strong><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"text-align: center; width: 11.3226%;\"><strong>State<\/strong><\/td>\n<td style=\"text-align: center; width: 4.40882%;\"><strong>Rank<\/strong><\/td>\n<td style=\"text-align: center; width: 47.0942%;\"><strong>Positive Factors<\/strong><\/td>\n<td style=\"text-align: center; width: 30.4609%;\"><strong>Challenges<\/strong><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"width: 11.3226%;\">\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">West Bengal<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 4.40882%;\">\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">1st<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 47.0942%;\">\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Fertile alluvial plains, ample rainfall, large cultivation area.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 30.4609%;\">\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Moderate yield due to traditional practices.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"width: 11.3226%;\">\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Uttar Pradesh<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 4.40882%;\">\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">2nd<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 47.0942%;\">\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Extensive alluvial deposits in Ganga-Yamuna plains.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 30.4609%;\">\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dependence on monsoon; moderate yield.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"width: 11.3226%;\">\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Punjab<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 4.40882%;\">\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">4th<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 47.0942%;\">\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">High irrigation coverage, HYV seeds, fertilisers, mechanisation.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 30.4609%;\">\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Groundwater depletion, salinity, land degradation.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<h2><strong>Rice Cultivation in India Map<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Here is a geographical representation of Rice Cultivation in India:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/vajiramias.sgp1.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com\/wp\/current-affairs\/2025\/10\/top-10-rice-producing-states-of-india.webp\" alt=\"Rice Cultivation in India Map\" title=\"top-10-rice-producing-states-of-india\" class=\"my-image my-image-size-full my-image-align-center\" style=\"width: auto; height: auto;\" \/>\n<h2><strong>Rice Trade and Export in India<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">India holds the top position in global rice exports, surpassing Thailand since 2011\u201312. The country exports both basmati and non-basmati rice, catering to diverse global markets. <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Basmati rice, known for its aroma and long grain, is primarily cultivated in Punjab, Haryana, and western Uttar Pradesh. Major importing nations include Saudi Arabia, Iran, Iraq, and Yemen. <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">India\u2019s competitive advantage lies in its vast production base, cost-effective labour, and diversified rice varieties that meet global demand preferences.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Export Leadership: India accounts for nearly 40% of global rice exports. Basmati rice is mainly exported to West Asia, Europe, and the United States, while non-basmati rice reaches Africa and Southeast Asia.<\/li>\n<li>Importing Countries: Benin, C\u00f4te d\u2019Ivoire, Guinea, Cameroon, Kenya, Nepal, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka import substantial quantities of Indian non-basmati rice, supporting food security in these regions.<\/li>\n<li>Export Composition: During 2024-25, non-basmati rice formed nearly 70% of export volume but generated about 48% of export earnings because of its lower market price compared to premium basmati rice.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><b>Challenges Associated with Rice Cultivation in India<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Despite record production levels, Rice Cultivation in India faces multiple environmental, economic, and productivity related challenges.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Groundwater Depletion: Excessive irrigation and water-intensive cultivation practices have severely depleted groundwater resources, particularly in Punjab, Haryana, and other major rice-growing regions.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Ecological Stress: Expansion of rice cultivation into water-stressed areas has increased pressure on natural ecosystems, threatening long-term agricultural sustainability.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Low Productivity: India\u2019s average rice yield remains around 2,929 kg per hectare, significantly lower than China\u2019s nearly 7,100 kg per hectare, indicating substantial productivity gaps.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Small Landholdings: Nearly 90% of agricultural land is owned by marginal, small, and medium farmers, limiting mechanisation, investment capacity, and adoption of advanced technologies.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Monoculture Risks: Excessive dependence on rice and wheat cultivation increases vulnerability to ecological degradation, pest outbreaks, and reduced agricultural diversity.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/current-affairs\/stubble-burning\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Stubble Burning<\/strong><\/a>: The Preservation of Subsoil Water Act 2009 shortened the interval between paddy harvesting and wheat sowing, contributing to widespread crop residue burning and seasonal <a href=\"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/upsc-exam\/air-pollution\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>air pollution<\/strong><\/a>.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Rising Input Costs: Increasing expenditure on fertilisers, pesticides, diesel, and labour has reduced profitability for many rice farmers across different states.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Climate Change Risks: Erratic monsoons, extreme weather events, floods, and droughts threaten rice production stability and can disrupt both domestic supply and global trade.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nutritional Concerns: Although rice ensures calorie security, it does not sufficiently address micronutrient deficiencies, creating challenges for improving nutritional outcomes.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><b>Rice Cultivation in India Government Initiatives<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">India has introduced several policy measures to improve productivity and sustainability of Rice Cultivation in India.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">National Food Security Act 2013: The NFSA legally guarantees subsidised foodgrains to about 81.35 crore beneficiaries, covering 75% of the rural population and 50% of the urban population.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Rice in <a href=\"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/current-affairs\/national-food-security-mission\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Food Security<\/strong><\/a>: During 2025-26, rice accounted for approximately 40.6 million tonnes, representing over 65% of total foodgrains distributed through government welfare programmes.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Buffer Stock Management: As of 1 January 2026, rice stocks in the central pool stood at 63.06 million metric tonnes, far exceeding the prescribed buffer norm of 7.61 million metric tonnes.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Rice Fortification Programme: Nationwide Rice <a href=\"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/current-affairs\/food-fortification-in-india\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Fortification<\/strong><\/a> with iron, folic acid, and vitamin B12 was approved in 2022 to address anaemia and micronutrient deficiencies among beneficiaries.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">National Food Security and Nutrition Mission: NFSNM focuses on improving rice productivity in low-yield districts through better seeds, technologies, and scientific cultivation practices.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana: RKVY enables states to implement region-specific rice development projects, including irrigation facilities, infrastructure creation, and processing support.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">PM Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana: Introduced for 2025-26, PMDDKY targets 100 low-productivity districts through improved irrigation, agricultural credit access, and post-harvest infrastructure development.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Crop Diversification Efforts: Punjab launched a 2025 pilot scheme providing \u20b917,500 per hectare for shifting from paddy to maize cultivation across six districts covering 12,000 hectares.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sustainable Technologies: Direct Seeded Rice, Alternate Wetting and Drying, climate-resilient varieties, and methane-reducing cultivation practices are being promoted to reduce environmental stress.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Digital and Carbon Initiatives: Depot Darpan, Digital Agri-Stack, Unified Farmer Service Platform, and Carbon Credit Trading Scheme support transparent procurement, monitoring, and sustainable rice cultivation practices.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<table style=\"border-collapse: collapse; width: 86.8735%; height: 150px;\">\n<tbody>\n<tr style=\"height: 25px;\">\n<td class=\"tb-color\" style=\"width: 88.0437%; text-align: center; height: 25px;\" colspan=\"2\"><strong>Also Check Other Posts<\/strong><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"height: 25px;\">\n<td style=\"width: 41.1656%; text-align: center; height: 25px;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/upsc-exam\/geomorphology\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Geomorphology<\/strong><\/a><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 46.8781%; text-align: center; height: 25px;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/upsc-exam\/dams-in-india\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Major Dams in India<\/strong><\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"height: 25px;\">\n<td style=\"width: 41.1656%; text-align: center; height: 25px;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/upsc-exam\/composition-and-structure-of-atmosphere\/\" 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initiatives.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":11,"featured_media":66933,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[786],"tags":[5435,5104,4935,2180,3140],"class_list":["post-67513","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","category-general-studies","tag-agriculture","tag-economy","tag-geography","tag-major-crops-of-india","tag-rice-cultivation-in-india","no-featured-image-padding"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/current-affairs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/67513","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/current-affairs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/current-affairs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/current-affairs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/11"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/current-affairs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=67513"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/current-affairs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/67513\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":109557,"href":"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/current-affairs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/67513\/revisions\/109557"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/current-affairs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/66933"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/current-affairs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=67513"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/current-affairs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=67513"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/current-affairs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=67513"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}