29 June 2026, Hyderabad: The Government of Telangana is preparing a dedicated rice export policy to strengthen the state’s position in international markets, as annual rice production continues to significantly exceed domestic consumption.
Announcing the proposal, N. Uttam Kumar Reddy, Minister for Irrigation & Command Area Development and Food & Civil Supplies, Government of Telangana, said the state produces nearly 30 million metric tonnes (300 lakh metric tonnes) of rice annually across the Kharif and Rabi seasons, while its yearly consumption is only about 3.6 million metric tonnes (36 lakh metric tonnes).
“Telangana consumes barely one-tenth of the rice it produces. Exports represent the next major growth opportunity for the state’s rice industry. The Government is preparing a dedicated policy to facilitate rice exports and support rice millers in accessing national and international markets,” the Minister said.
He added that Telangana has already commenced rice exports to countries including the Philippines and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting the rice milling sector as it expands into overseas markets.
According to the Minister, Telangana is currently India’s leading state in both rice production and government procurement, positioning it to play a larger role in global rice trade as export opportunities expand.
The announcement was made during the workshop “Unlocking Market Potential: Advancing Fortified Rice in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh”, where stakeholders from the rice milling industry, food processing sector, nutrition community and government discussed opportunities to strengthen value-added rice markets.
The event also marked the launch of KCP Nutri Poshan, a fortified rice range enriched with essential vitamins, iron and zinc. Available in popular rice varieties including Kolam, HMT and Sona Masoori, the product reflects growing industry interest in value-added staple foods aimed at improving nutritional outcomes without changing consumers’ dietary habits.
Speaking at the event, Uttam Kumar Reddy said fortified rice represents an important step towards improving nutritional security while maintaining the taste and cooking characteristics familiar to consumers.
Globally, food fortification is recognised as one of the most cost-effective public health interventions for addressing micronutrient deficiencies. While fortification of staple foods has been adopted in many countries for decades, fortified rice remains an emerging category with growing potential, particularly in rice-consuming regions such as India.
The workshop was organised by Millers for Nutrition.
Global Agriculture is an independent international media platform covering agri-business, policy, technology, and sustainability. For editorial collaborations, thought leadership, and strategic communications, write to pr@global-agriculture.com
