Rice Production in India: A Staple for Millions
Rice is the staple food for 40% of the Indian population and is integral to Indian cuisine. Due to specific environmental factors, rice, the most popular and extensively consumed food in India, is as pure white as a diamond and just as nutritious as any other food. The scientific name for rice is Oryza Sativa, translating to “paddy rice.” This carb-heavy food is the main crop and an essential dietary component in every region of India.
Significance of Rice in India
India is one of the top producers of rice globally, ranking second after China. In the most recent fiscal year, India's rice production surpassed 100 million metric tonnes. This significant yield underscores the country’s pivotal role in the global rice market. The majority of the rice produced in India is basmati rice, a primary export good. India is thought to produce 4.25 million metric tonnes of basmati rice, approximately 75% of the global production. Notably, India exports two-thirds of its basmati rice production, with Iran, Saudi Arabia, the UK, and the US being major importers.
Major Rice Producing States in India