India's Cumin Production Is Less Due to Lower Sowing

India's cumin (jeera) output for the 2024-25 season is expected to be lower than last year. It is due to reduced acreage, unfavorable weather, and pest attacks in key growing regions. Trade estimates suggest the crop may range between 65 and 90 lakh bags (55 kg each), significantly down from 115 million bags produced in 2023-24.

Weather Impact  On The Crops

Cumin is primarily cultivated in Gujarat and Rajasthan, where sowing was down by 25% compared to last year. Unseasonal weather in October and November affected germination, forcing many farmers in Rajasthan to resow multiple times.

"Despite concerns about the weather and delayed sowing, we expect cumin production to be between 65 and 70 lakh bags, which is still within a normal range," said Yogesh Mehta, CEO of SpicExim, a global spice trade expert with 54 years of experience. He noted that carry-forward stocks of 2 million bags would ensure overall availability of 8.5-9.0 million bags, which should be sufficient for domestic and export demand.

Key Growing Regions Facing Uncertainty

Dinesh Soni is a leading spices trader and exporter from Jodhpur. He anticipates the crop size to be around 90 lakh bags, marking a drop from 1.15 crore bags last year. He observed a 20% decline in Gujarat’s cumin acreage and a 5% reduction in Rajasthan.

“The yields last year were exceptionally good, which helped push production higher. This year, however, yields may be lower due to delayed sowing and weather-related stress,” Soni explained. He also highlighted cloudy weather in some parts of Rajasthan, including Nagore, which could further impact the crop's size and quality. The next 2-3 weeks will be critical for the cumin crop, which is already delayed by a month.

Pest Infestations and Quality Concerns

According to Bhagirath Chaudhary, Founder Director of the South Asia Biotechnology Centre in Jodhpur, cumin production in Rajasthan may drop by 30%.

“The early sown crop—which covers 60-65% of the total area—is in good condition. But late-sown cumin fields are struggling due to high temperatures during October and November. This has stunted plant growth and affected grain formation. Additionally, fusarium wilt and aphid infestations in late-planted areas could further impact yield and quality,” Chaudhary noted.

Previous Season’s Strong Output

India’s cumin production in 2023-24 saw a sharp increase. Reaching 0.86 million tonnes, up from 0.57 million tonnes the previous year, according to Spices Board data.

While this season’s production is set to decline, traders believe carry-over stocks and normal demand levels will help stabilize market conditions in the months ahead.

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