India's Basmati Rice Yield Projected to Rise 5-10% This Year on Favorable Monsoons

NEW DELHI — India's basmati rice yield is expected to increase by 5 to 10 percent this year compared to the previous year, according to industry leadership. The projected growth is supported by favorable rainfall and better crop conditions across the cultivating regions.

Rajeev Setia, President of Basmati IREF and Joint Managing Director of Chaman Lal Setia Exports Ltd., shared the outlook on the sidelines of the Bharat International Rice Conference 2026 in New Delhi. Setia attributed the anticipated rise in productivity directly to weather patterns observed during the season.

"The monsoon was reasonable... and thereafter there were good rains. Just look around, greenery we have all around. So in that way the crop grew and the yield in this particular year for basmati rice is higher," Setia stated.

When asked about the estimated volume growth, Setia confirmed that the increase would range between 5 to 10 percent compared to the preceding year. This expected improvement in yields carries significance for India's basmati rice sector, as heightened agricultural productivity has the potential to support export availability amid expectations of growing international demand.

Setia also expressed optimism regarding the long-term demand trajectory for Indian basmati rice. He pointed to the increasing popularity of Indian food and cuisine across international markets as a key driver expanding the market beyond traditional consumers, specifically noting consumer trends in Europe and the United States.

Highlighting the global footprint of the commodity, Setia mentioned that his own firm currently exports to 96 countries. He also reiterated India's strong position in the global basmati rice trade, emphasizing that the crop holds geographical indication (GI) recognition and is cultivated within specific geographical regions in the country.

India remains one of the world's leading producers and exporters of basmati rice, with the crop holding an important role in agricultural exports. While higher yields are expected to improve supply availability, actual export performance will ultimately depend on broader international demand and prevailing market conditions.

The Bharat International Rice Conference 2026 is taking place from October 23 to 25 in New Delhi. The event serves as a gathering for Indian exporters, international buyers, and other stakeholders involved in the global rice trade.

"An anticipated 5 to 10 percent increase in basmati rice yield is a positive development for India's agricultural export sector. Favorable monsoons directly impact supply availability, which is crucial for meeting steady international demand. For businesses operating in the agri-trade ecosystem, consistent crop yields combined with the geographical indication (GI) status of basmati provide a strong foundation for expanding market reach across global economies like Europe and the United States." — Dr. Shishir Gupta, Founder & CEO, StartupLanes