India’s wheat production is on track to surpass last year’s record of 117.94 million tonnes, thanks to higher sown area and good crop conditions. Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan shared this positive outlook on January 14, 2026, at an ICAR event in New Delhi. Wheat has been sown across a record 33.41 million hectares as of early January, up from 32.80 million hectares last year, boosting expectations for a bumper harvest.
The minister noted no major crop damage so far, with favorable weather supporting growth. Officials predict output could touch 120 million tonnes if trends continue, exceeding the initial target of 119 million tonnes set in September 2025. This growth aligns with India’s national foodgrain goal of 362.50 million tonnes for 2025-26, a 2.4% rise from the previous year. Timely sowing and above-normal monsoon rains from 2025 have aided rabi crops like wheat.
Higher production will strengthen food security and stabilize prices for India’s 1.4 billion people, where wheat meets 20% of calorie needs. It supports exports, with last year’s surplus aiding global markets amid supply concerns. The government pushes initiatives like ‘Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan‘ to guide farmers on better seeds and practices, targeting pulses and oilseeds next. This milestone reflects robust agricultural progress under current policies.
FAQs [Frequently Asked Questions]
1. What is the expected wheat production for 2025-26?
Output is likely to exceed 117.94 million tonnes from last year, potentially reaching 120 million tonnes due to record sowing on 33.41 million hectares and healthy crop conditions.
2. Why is this year’s wheat output higher?
Record sown area of 33.41 million hectares (vs. 32.80 million last year), timely sowing, no damage, and favorable post-monsoon weather are key drivers for the projected bumper harvest.
3. How does this impact India’s food security?
Surpassing 117.94 million tonnes ensures ample stocks for 1.4 billion people, stabilizes prices, supports exports, and meets 20% of national calorie needs from wheat.