India becomes largest rice producer, surpasses China
image for illustrative purpose
New Delhi: India has become the world’s largest rice producer, beating China, with a total output of 150.18 million tonnes, Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan said on Sunday, as he released 184 new varieties of 25 crops.
These new high-yielding seed varieties would boost crop production and enhance farmers’ income, he said, while directing the ministry officials to ensure that these new varieties reach farmers quickly.
The minister unveiled 184 improved varieties of 25 field crops developed by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research at an event held in the national capital, according to an official statement.
Addressing the event, Chouhan said the country has achieved great success in the development of high-yielding seeds.
