India has exported a record 198.65 lakh tonnes of rice till March 25 of the financial year 2023-24, surpassing the total export volume of 163.58 lakh tonnes recorded during the entire previous fiscal, according to data 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, including rice, to safeguard the interests of consumers, farmers, and the industry. “Policy interventions are made as and when required to maintain domestic food security,” she stated.
Breaking down the rice export figures for FY24 up to March 25, the data reveals that basmati rice accounted for 59.44 lakh tonnes, parboiled rice 90.44 lakh tonnes, non-basmati white rice 33.23 lakh tonnes, broken rice 7.95 lakh tonnes, and other rice varieties 7.59 lakh tonnes.
The minister also highlighted the significance of broken rice in various sectors, noting that India produces around 50–60 lakh tonnes of broken rice annually. “Broken rice is primarily used as poultry and animal feed, and as feedstock for grain-based distilleries producing ethanol, which is blended with petrol by Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs). Its availability has positively impacted these industries,” Bambhaniya added.
The government’s proactive approach to balancing exports with domestic needs continues to play a crucial role in maintaining food security while supporting key agricultural industries.
