Indian Agricultural Industry states that the foodgrain production touched a record 205.91 m.tons in 1999-2000. There is increase of 2.57 m.tonnes as compared to previous year. Wheat production recorded an all time high of 74.25m tonnes during the year, up by 3.47m tonnes from last year, agriculture ministry reported. Rice production during kharif and rabi seasons was also higher at 88.25m tonnes compared to 86m tonnes in ‘98-99. The record production is despite the devastating cyclone in Orissa and drought in Gujarat, Rajasthan and parts of Andhra Pradesh as reported. However, pulses and oilseeds production was down this year due to the drought in western parts of the country. The highest-ever foodgrain production was despite seven out of 35 meteorological sub-divisions recording deficient rains last year. |
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