Likely Decline in Production of Paddy, Maize, and Moong

New Delhi. Compared to last year, the area under cultivation for paddy, maize, and *moong* (green gram) has decreased at the national level during this year's Kharif season; furthermore, crop conditions are reported to be weak in certain key producing regions due to a lack of rainfall. Consequently, a decline in the average yield rates and total output of these crops is anticipated.

A drop in maize and *moong* production could fuel a rise in their market prices. Demand for and consumption of maize are increasing in the starch manufacturing industry, as well as in the animal and poultry feed sectors. The same trend applies to the ethanol production industry. However, the use of maize components in ethanol production is likely to decrease significantly this time, as the government is considering restrictions on the use of sugarcane juice, syrup, and 'B-heavy' molasses. As a result, grain-based distilleries will have to increase their reliance on maize, government-supplied rice, and broken rice. This could drive up the demand, consumption, and price of maize. Maize prices may remain particularly firm in certain food-related sectors.

As for *moong*, its production is also likely to see a slight decline. Imports of *moong* from abroad have been banned for approximately four and a half years, and the government holds substantial stocks. Nevertheless, prices could strengthen due to the influence of other pulse varieties. *Moong* is cultivated across all three seasons—Kharif, Rabi, and Zaid. If rainfall is favorable and the impact of El Niño remains limited, the sowing area and production could improve somewhat during the Rabi season.