Govt Trims FY27 Crop Target, Plans Shift to Less Water-Intensive Crops
What Happened
The Centre has set a foodgrain production target of 373.93 million tonnes for 2026-27, about 2.63 million tonnes lower than the 376.56 million tonnes produced in 2025-26. The reduced target reflects concerns over El Niño, uneven rainfall, low reservoir levels and soil moisture, with the government encouraging farmers in water-stressed regions to shift from water-intensive crops to pulses and oilseeds.
Key Takeaways
India is adopting a more cautious agricultural strategy for FY27, balancing food security goals with the risk of drought and weather disruptions linked to a potentially stronger El Niño.