Top 5 Highest Sunflower Producing States in India

Did you know that sunflower seeds and oil are in high demand in India, leading to imports from countries like Brazil, Ukraine, and Russia? Despite this, India does have a significant amount of domestic sunflower cultivation. Today, we’ll take a look at the top 5 sunflower-producing states in India for 2024. Let’s get started.

1. Karnataka – 103,400 tonnes

Karnataka holds the crown as the largest producer of sunflowers in India, with an impressive production of 103,400 tonnes. This accounts for nearly half (48.65%) of the country’s total output. The state’s soil and climate are ideal for sunflower farming, especially in regions like Kalyana Karnataka, where farmers have shifted from traditional crops to sunflowers due to their profitability and high demand. Key districts like Raichur, Koppal, and Yadgir have seen significant growth in sunflower cultivation, solidifying Karnataka’s leadership in this sector.

2. Odisha – 20,960 tonnes

Next up is Odisha, producing around 20,960 tonnes of sunflowers, which makes up 9.46% of India’s total sunflower production. The state’s climate is favorable for sunflower cultivation, but despite this, the area dedicated to sunflower farming has been shrinking. With only 440 hectares under cultivation, the decline is due to issues like poor soil conditions, limited marketing options, and insufficient processing facilities. Nevertheless, Odisha remains a key player in the industry.

3. Haryana – 16,800 tonnes

Haryana follows with 16,800 tonnes of sunflower production, contributing 7.90% to the national total. The state, particularly around the Ambala region, has expanded its sunflower cultivation despite challenges such as market price fluctuations and crop damage due to rain. Sunflowers remain a popular choice among farmers because they mature quickly and can be intercropped with other crops, promoting better soil health and farm productivity.

4. Maharashtra – 12,120 tonnes

Maharashtra is another significant contributor, producing 12,120 tonnes of sunflowers. The state’s agricultural strategy emphasizes oilseeds like sunflower, which are in high demand and provide good returns for farmers. Sunflowers are often intercropped with other oilseeds as part of crop rotation practices, allowing farmers to make efficient use of their land while minimizing financial risks. This approach has made sunflowers an important part of Maharashtra’s agricultural landscape.

5. Bihar – 11,480 tonnes

Rounding out the top 5 is Bihar, with 11,480 tonnes of sunflower production, accounting for 5.40% of India’s total. Sunflower cultivation in Bihar has remained consistent over the years, and the steady production levels suggest that the state will continue to play a role in India’s sunflower farming in the foreseeable future.

Conclusion

India’s sunflower cultivation is driven by several states, with Karnataka leading the way by a large margin. While factors such as climate, soil quality, and market demand influence production, farmers in states like Odisha, Haryana, Maharashtra, and Bihar continue to invest in sunflower farming. Although imports are still necessary to meet the country’s demand, the domestic production of sunflowers plays a crucial role in supporting local economies and reducing reliance on foreign sources.