Bangalore, 17 June (H.S.) :

Even in the turbulent times of Russia-Ukraine, Iran-Israel, and Israel-Hamas wars in the world, India has set a record in the export sector. It has achieved a historic achievement in agri-food exports. Rice exports have crossed US $12.47 billion.

India, which has emerged from the era of imports, has now taken a major step in exporting agricultural and food products to various countries of the world. It has exported record rice in the very first days of the current financial year and has seen a significant increase in exports of basmati and non-basmati rice.

Rice exports increased by over 13% to US $1.08 billion in April 2025. Rice exports increased by 19.73% to US $12.47 billion in the financial year 2024-25. This is a historic achievement as it is almost 20% more than in 2023-24 (US $10.42).

Due to the country's bumper rice crop this time, the central government lifted the ban on rice exports in September 2024. All restrictions imposed for a year, including the minimum export price, were lifted, allowing global rice trade. As a result, India is at the top of the rice export ladder.

With the timely decision of the Central Government, India is re-establishing its dominance in the global rice trade. There has been an increase in rice exports, especially to African and South-East Asian countries. India has been recognized as the largest rice exporter in the world for the past decade and is still moving forward with the same goal.

In the current scenario, due to geographical and political factors, global demand for Indian basmati and non-basmati rice is likely to increase, and rice exports are expected to increase by 10-15% this financial year, says Amit Goel, Managing Director, KNAM Food Institute.

India's exports of agricultural and processed food products have also seen impressive growth in the current fiscal year. Exports in April rose by over 15 per cent to around US $2.13 billion. There has also been a significant increase in exports of rice, meat, fruits and vegetables.

With the possibility of above-normal rainfall in the 2025 monsoon season, a bumper harvest is expected for the paddy crop, and rice production and exports are expected to increase further by the end of the current financial year. Demand for Indian cereals and pulses is now increasing, with an annual growth rate of 6.2% between 2020-2025.

30% increase in fruit and vegetable exports: According to the Directorate of Trade Intelligence and Statistics, India's exports of not only rice but also fresh fruits and vegetables are expected to increase by more than 30% to US $0.38 billion. Foodgrains are up by more than 7% to US $0.26 billion.

Increased demand for meat and milk products: India's meat exports have also seen a significant increase due to its quality meat and nutritious food. There is a lot of demand from all over the world. Compared to April 2024, exports of buffalo meat, dairy and poultry products are increasing by 16% every year and are worth US $ 0.37 billion.

Exports of products under APEDA: Exports of products under the Agriculture and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) were valued at $25.14 billion in 2024-25, up 12% from the previous year. Products under APEDA accounted for 51% of the total agricultural exports. The remaining agricultural exports include marine products, tobacco, coffee and tea.

Overall, India's agriculture sector has established a presence in the international market as well as meeting domestic demand. Agricultural exports have played a significant role in the country's economy and increasing farmers' income.

Hindusthan Samachar / Rakesh Mahadevappa