Wheat Production Likely to Fall Short of Government Estimates

24-Mar-2026 09:01 PM

New Delhi. Government data indicates that during the 2025-26 Rabi season, the area under wheat cultivation surged to a new record high of 334.17 lakh hectares—an increase of 6.13 lakh hectares compared to the 328.04 lakh hectares recorded in the 2024-25 season.

Based on this, the Ministry of Agriculture has projected that wheat production will also rise from 1179.40 lakh tonnes to reach an all-time high of 1202.10 lakh tonnes. Generally, the condition of the crop remains satisfactory.

The Union Ministry of Food has set a procurement target of 303 lakh tonnes of wheat for the current year, a figure lower than that of previous years. Weather conditions in March were somewhat adverse.

Industry and trade circles believe that actual wheat production may fall short of government estimates; nevertheless, it is expected to be sufficient to meet domestic demand and requirements. The vigorous harvesting of the new wheat crop is set to commence next month.