Foodgrain output target cut over El Nino impact

India has reduced its foodgrain output target to 373.93 million tonnes for the 2026-27 crop year, down from a projected 376.56 million tonnes in the previous year. This adjustment is attributed to the impact of the El Nino weather pattern and a weaker monsoon, which heighten concerns over agricultural yields. The rabi season is expected to contribute 177.72 million tonnes to the target, as stated by agriculture minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan at the National Agriculture Conference-Rabi Campaign 2026.

The previous year's target was set at 362.60 million tonnes, but actual output surpassed expectations, reaching 376.56 million tonnes. The latest targets were determined by assessing water availability, soil moisture, and state consultations.

The central government is exploring a shift in cropping patterns in regions suffering from water scarcity, encouraging farmers to cultivate pulses and oilseeds instead of water-greedy crops. This follows an uneven southwest monsoon this year, which narrowed the rainfall deficit from around 14% to approximately 12%. Kharif sowing was slightly lower than the previous year, with a decline in paddy acreage being the most significant.

Other crops like maize, soybean, and cotton also experienced minor reductions in cultivated area, while pulses, oilseeds, and coarse cereals saw a modest increase in sowing.