Largest Producer of Maize in India: Which State Leads Maize Production in 2025?
When discussing the largest producer of maize in India , one name stands out clearly - Madhya Pradesh. Often referred to as the “Queen of Cereals”, maize has quietly become one of the most versatile and essential crops in India’s agricultural landscape. From feeding households and livestock to powering industries, maize plays a far bigger role than most people realise.
Maize in India: A Crop with Expanding Importance
Maize, scientifically known as Zea mays, has been cultivated in India for generations. While it may not enjoy the same everyday prominence as rice or wheat, it ranks as the third most important cereal crop in the country.
Its growing demand is driven by its wide range of applications, including:
This versatility has made maize a crucial crop for both agriculture and industry.
Which State is the Largest Producer of Maize in India?
Madhya Pradesh is the largest producer of maize in India, surpassing long-time leader Karnataka.
The state’s consistent growth in maize production has positioned it at the top, making it a key contributor to India’s overall output.
Top 3 Maize-Producing States in India (2024–25)
According to the latest estimates, here are the leading maize-producing states:
1. Madhya Pradesh
2. Karnataka
3. Bihar
These states form the backbone of maize cultivation in India, contributing a significant portion of the total output.
India’s Maize Production Growth in 2024–25
India recorded a strong surge in maize production, reaching 43.41 million tonnes in 2024–25. This rise is largely fuelled by increasing demand from:
Maize in India: A Crop with Expanding Importance
Maize, scientifically known as Zea mays, has been cultivated in India for generations. While it may not enjoy the same everyday prominence as rice or wheat, it ranks as the third most important cereal crop in the country.
Its growing demand is driven by its wide range of applications, including:
- Food products like cornflakes, popcorn and baby food
- Animal fodder for the poultry and livestock industry
- Industrial uses such as starch, corn oil and cosmetics
- Biofuel and ethanol production
This versatility has made maize a crucial crop for both agriculture and industry.
Which State is the Largest Producer of Maize in India?
Madhya Pradesh is the largest producer of maize in India, surpassing long-time leader Karnataka.
- Production: 6.64 million tonnes
- Share in national output: 15.30%
- Area under cultivation: 19 lakh hectares
The state’s consistent growth in maize production has positioned it at the top, making it a key contributor to India’s overall output.
Top 3 Maize-Producing States in India (2024–25)
According to the latest estimates, here are the leading maize-producing states:
1. Madhya Pradesh
- Production: 6.64 million tonnes
- Share: 15.30%
2. Karnataka
- Production: 6.19 million tonnes
- Share: 14.26%
3. Bihar
- Production: 5.47 million tonnes
- Share: 12.60%
These states form the backbone of maize cultivation in India, contributing a significant portion of the total output.
India’s Maize Production Growth in 2024–25
India recorded a strong surge in maize production, reaching 43.41 million tonnes in 2024–25. This rise is largely fuelled by increasing demand from:
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