Union Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan stated that the country’s agriculture and allied sectors have seen an average annual growth rate of 4.4% over the last five years, surpassing the global average. Data from the Economic Survey revealed that from 2016 to 2025, the agricultural sector achieved a decadal growth rate of 4.45%, the highest in comparison to previous decades.
Chouhan emphasized that in the second quarter of the financial year 2025–26, the agriculture sector demonstrated a growth rate of 3.5%, showcasing its resilience and vigor. Notably, in the fiscal year 2024–25, India’s foodgrain production reached a record high of 357.73 million tonnes, primarily driven by enhanced outputs of rice, wheat, maize, and coarse cereals, including ‘Shree Anna’ (millets).
The Minister highlighted that India has attained self-sufficiency in foodgrain production and is now a key player globally in various crops. With nearly 33% contribution to agricultural gross value added (GVA), the horticulture sector has emerged as a significant aspect of Indian agriculture. Horticulture production surged from 280.70 million tonnes in the fiscal year 2013–14 to 367.72 million tonnes in 2024–25.
India has become the largest onion producer worldwide, accounting for about 25% of global production. Additionally, the country stands as the second-largest producer of vegetables, fruits, and potatoes, with a global share of approximately 12–13% in each category. Chouhan noted that consistent policy focus, institutional reforms, and targeted investments have bolstered agriculture and brought about a transformation in rural India.
Under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY), more than 99.6% of eligible habitations now have access to all-weather roads, enhancing rural infrastructure. Noteworthy progress has been made in rural housing, drinking water facilities, and digital connectivity. Initiatives like the SVAMITVA scheme and the Digital India Land Records Modernisation Programme have significantly advanced digital and technological aspects in rural areas.
