India has officially become the world’s largest producer of rice, overtaking China, Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan announced on Monday. The country recorded a rice output of 150.18 million tonnes, surpassing China’s production of 145.28 million tonnes.

The announcement was made in the national capital after the minister released 184 new crop varieties developed by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR). These varieties cover 25 different crops and are aimed at improving agricultural productivity across the country.

Quoting the minister, the Times of India reported that India has achieved “great success” in developing high-yielding seeds. Shivraj Singh Chouhan said that the country has transformed from a food-deficient nation into a global food provider.

“India has surpassed China in rice production and has become the world’s largest producer,” he said, while also noting that China’s rice output currently stands at 145.28 million tonnes.

According to PTI, the minister described this achievement as unprecedented and highlighted that India is now supplying rice to overseas markets. He also assured that the country has adequate foodgrain stocks, which ensures food security for its population.

Chouhan further directed officials to make sure that the newly released seed varieties reach farmers on time, so that they can benefit from improved yields and better crop performance.

PTI also reported that since the gazette notification process began in 1969, a total of 7,205 crop varieties have been notified in the country. Out of these, 3,236 high-yielding varieties were approved during the Narendra Modi-led government.

The 184 newly released varieties include a wide range of crops. These consist of 122 cereals, six pulses, 13 oilseeds, 11 fodder crops, six sugarcane varieties, and 24 cotton varieties, including 22 Bt cotton varieties. In addition, one variety each of jute and tobacco has also been released.

The development and release of these new crop varieties reflect India’s continued efforts to strengthen agricultural production, support farmers, and maintain its growing role in the global food supply chain.