Domestic sesame production expected to be around last year's level

12-Mar-2026 08:36 PM

New Delhi. In India, sesame is primarily produced during the Kharif and Zaid seasons, while Rabi yields are significantly lower. The Kharif crop has already arrived, and sowing for the Zaid season is currently underway. The Rabi crop is about to arrive.

According to the Union Agriculture Ministry, the country's total sesame production during 2024-25 was 8.93 lakh tonnes, including 4.44 lakh tonnes for Kharif season, 19 thousand tonnes for Rabi season, and 4.31 lakh tonnes for summer season.

In comparison, during 2025-26, a total sesame production is expected, with 3.49 lakh tonnes in Kharif season and 17 thousand tonnes in Rabi season, for a total of 3.66 lakh tonnes. Only when Zaid season data is added, will an estimate for the entire season be available. The Zaid crop is harvested in May-June.

According to the ministry, previous domestic sesame production was estimated at 8.47 lakh tonnes in the 2023-24 season, 8.02 lakh tonnes in 2022-23, and 7.89 lakh tonnes in the 2021-22 season.

Annual sesame production in the country has remained stable between 8-9 lakh tonnes. The area under summer sesame is remaining the same as last year.