Metro India News | Hyderabad 

Telangana has achieved significant progress in paddy cultivation over the last ten years, thanks to proactive government policies, enhanced irrigation facilities, and favorable agricultural support systems. The increase in paddy production during both Vanakalam (Kharif) and Yasangi (Rabi) seasons reflects the state’s commitment to agricultural development and food security.

During the Vanakalam (Kharif) season, Telangana has seen an impressive increase in the area under paddy cultivation. In 2014-15, the total area under paddy was 22.74 lakh acres, producing 42.82 lakh tonnes. Over the years, there has been a substantial rise, with 2023-24 recording 65.95 lakh acres under paddy, yielding a remarkable 146.46 lakh tonnes. The yield per acre has also improved from 1,883 kg in 2014-15 to 2,221 kg in 2023-24, indicating advancements in farming practices and input utilization, as per the data from Telangana State Statistical Abstract (ATLAS) prepared by the state planning department

The Yasangi (Rabi) season has shown an even more remarkable surge in paddy cultivation. In 2014-15, the cultivated area stood at 12.23 lakh acres, with a production of 25.35 lakh tonnes. By 2023-24, this had expanded to 52.15 lakh acres, generating 114.41 lakh tonnes of paddy. The yield per acre has increased from 2,072 kg in 2014-15 to 2,194 kg in 2023-24. This growth can be attributed to extensive irrigation projects and support measures like crop investment support and 24x7 free power supply.

Telangana’s agricultural transformation

With a total paddy production of 260.88 lakh tonnes in 2023-24, Telangana has cemented its place as a leading rice-producing state in India. Districts like Nalgonda and Nizamabad have emerged as top contributors to the state’s overall production. After the formation of the new state, the government’s continuous efforts in improving irrigation infrastructure, providing financial support to farmers, and ensuring adequate market access have played a crucial role in this agricultural success.

The remarkable rise in paddy cultivation underscores Telangana’s commitment to strengthening its agrarian economy and ensuring food security for the future. With continued investment in agricultural resources and farmer welfare schemes, the state is poised for further growth in the coming years.

Top-5 paddy producing districts in Telangana

Among the districts, Nalgonda leads with a paddy cultivation area of 11.2 lakh acres and a production of 32.5 lakh tonnes in 2023-24. Karimnagar follows closely with 10.4 lakh acres yielding 30.1 lakh tonnes. Warangal accounts for 9.8 lakh acres and 28.7 lakh tonnes of production, while Khammam contributes with 8.6 lakh acres producing 25.4 lakh tonnes. Lastly, Nizamabad has cultivated 7.9 lakh acres, resulting in 22.9 lakh tonnes of paddy production. These five districts collectively play a crucial role in Telangana’s agricultural output and food security.