Basmati and Parboiled Rice Lead the Surge in Shipments
New Delhi, April 1 — India has recorded a significant rise in rice exports, reaching 198.65 lakh tonnes by March 25 of the financial year 2024-25, well above the 163.58 lakh tonnes exported during the entire FY 2023-24.The update was shared by Minister of State for Food and Consumer Affairs, Nimuben Jayantibhai Bambhaniya, in a written reply to the Rajya Sabha. The minister emphasized that the government closely monitors the production, availability, and trade of agricultural commodities to safeguard the interests of consumers, domestic farmers, and industry.
“The government makes necessary policy interventions as and when required to balance domestic food security in the country,” she stated.
Detailed Breakdown of Rice Exports
As per the data provided, the composition of the 198.65 lakh tonnes of rice exported till March 25 of FY 2024-25 includes:- Basmati Rice: 59.44 lakh tonnes
- Parboiled Rice: 90.44 lakh tonnes
- Non-Basmati White Rice: 33.23 lakh tonnes
- Broken Rice: 7.95 lakh tonnes
- Other Varieties: 7.59 lakh tonnes
- Basmati Rice: 52.43 lakh tonnes
- Parboiled Rice: 75.7 lakh tonnes
- Non-Basmati White Rice: 23.6 lakh tonnes
- Broken Rice: 5.49 lakh tonnes
- Other Varieties: 6.36 lakh tonnes
Industrial Importance of Broken Rice
Highlighting the industrial significance, Bambhaniya noted that India produces 50–60 lakh tonnes of broken rice annually. It plays a key role in:- Poultry and livestock feed
- Feedstock for grain-based distilleries
- Ethanol production for blending with petrol, supplied to Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs)
India’s strong performance in rice exports reflects a robust agricultural supply chain, bolstered by strategic policy interventions aimed at supporting both domestic needs and global trade.“This has had a positive impact in these industries,” the minister added.