Madhya Pradesh eyes second spot in wheat output

Record 20 million tonnes of production is expected

Madhya Pradesh is expecting to emerge as the second largest wheat producing state in India with a target of a record 20 million tonnes this year.

Madhya Pradesh is known for its high-protein Sharbati wheat variety and others like Durum, which are in demand for making pasta.

The state discontinued offering Rs 150 per kg bonus in 2014 following a central government order. Though the opposition Congress contests claims of the government on wheat procurement, the yield is increasing since 2007-2008.

In 2007, Madhya Pradesh’s wheat yield was 1,643 kg per hectare. “It is now expected to reach 3,271 kg per hectare,” said ML Mina, director, state farmers welfare and agriculture development.

“Farmers have provided more acreage to wheat. Sharbati, Durum and Lok-I fetch good returns. We will be the second largest wheat producing state since weather conditions are favourable this year,” he added. Punjab and Uttar Pradesh are the top two wheat producing states at present.

Madhya Pradesh has witnessed drought, frost, unseasonal rain and hailstorm during the past several seasons, yet farmers have managed to maintain productivity. “Farm mechanisation plays a key role. Despite odd weather, farmers are continuing with wheat,” he said.

Sehore, Ujjain, Shajapur, Shujalpur, Guna, Ashoknagar, Chhatarpur, Rewa, Morena, Bhopal, Raisen and Hoshangabad are the main wheat growing areas in Madhya Pradesh.