Bright Wheat Output Prospects
Context:
Despite temperatures remaining above the normal range in key wheat-growing regions, the outlook for India’s rabi wheat crop remains promising, as crop conditions are largely stable, according to officials and millers.
Higher Sown Area and Expected Output Growth
Wheat sowing this season has expanded to 32 million hectares (Mha), up from 31.56 Mha last year and above the five-year average.
- In recent years, wheat harvests have been impacted by excessive heat before harvesting and unseasonal rains in March.
- The Agriculture Ministry has estimated wheat output for 2023-24 at 113.29 MT, with projections for 2024-25 expected to be released soon.
Wheat Prices and Inflation Trends
- Currently, mandi prices for wheat in Delhi are around ₹3,200 per quintal. However, prices are expected to decline once the new harvest arrives in the market over the next six weeks.
- Wheat inflation stood at 8.8% year-on-year in January 2025 and has remained in single digits since August 2023.
- Trade sources noted that while global wheat prices are lower than domestic prices, mandi rates are likely to settle around ₹2,600 per quintal once the new crop is introduced.
Geographical Conditions for Wheat Production
Climate: Wheat requires a cool and moist climate during the growing season and a dry climate at the time of ripening. Ideal temperatures for winter wheat must drop to near freezing (below 4°C or 40°F) for the plant to enter its reproductive cycle. For spring wheat, a temperature between 21 and 24°C (70 and 75°F) is optimal, with the ability to grow in temperatures as low as 4°C (40°F) and as high as 35°C (95°F).
Rainfall: Annual rainfall of 30 to 80 cm is generally required. Some areas need between 75 cm to 100 cm of rainfall. The ideal amount of water required to grow a successful wheat harvest is 30–38 cm during the growing season.
Soil: Fertile, well-drained loamy soil is considered ideal for wheat cultivation. Heavy loamy or light clay soils are also suitable. Wheat can be grown in various kinds of soils; black soil is one of the best soils for its production. Soil pH should be between 5.5 and 7.55.
Sunlight: Wheat grows best in full daylight and needs at least six hours of sunlight daily. Areas with relatively low temperatures but higher radiation produce the highest crop yield.
India Sends First-Ever Pomegranate Shipments
- In a significant step toward boosting fresh fruit exports, India has successfully sent its first commercial trial shipments of premium pomegranates to Australia via the sea route.
- The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), in collaboration with private entities AgroStar and Kay Bee Exports, facilitated the shipment of Sangola and Bhagwa pomegranate varieties.
- This development marks a milestone in India’s fresh fruit exports, demonstrating the feasibility of long-distance shipping through the sea route while maintaining product quality.
