Short-duration basmati sowing to rise, bumper crop eyed

India is set to strengthen its status as the world's largest basmati rice producer, with the acreage under short-duration basmati varieties expected to surge by up to 10% this kharif season (June to October)—a shift driven by better prices, faster crop cycles and rising export momentum.

- Vijay C. Roy

"We are anticipating an increase in area of short-duration basmati varieties by 7-10% as farmers got remunerative price last year," said Satish Goel, president, All India Rice Exporters Association (AIREA).

Short-duration basmati varieties mature in 115-125 days—about 20-25 days earlier than longer-duration types—allowing farmers to save on input costs, better manage stubble, and grow an additional crop in between. This shift is expected to push India's total basmati acreage beyond 3 million hectares, further strengthening its lead in global exports.