India is the largest producer, consumer and exporter of chilli in the world. It contributes to nearly 40 per cent of world supply. Chilli is widely used in Indian cuisine and holds a significant place, adding heat and vibrant colour to various dishes. India continues to lead as a global chilli producer, with several states dominating chilli production due to favourable climate conditions, fertile soil and agricultural practices. Chillies are cultivated in India during both the Kharif and Rabi crop seasons. Here is a list of the highest chili-producing states in India.
1. Andhra Pradesh
The first state on our list of the largest chili-producing state in India is Andhra Pradesh. Andhra Pradesh’s contribution to chilli production in India is around 45 per cent, nearly half of India’s total output. The state dominates in chilli production due to its hot and arid climate conditions coupled with fertile soil that provides ideal conditions for cultivating chillies. Guntur and Warangal are two districts that are suitable locations for the production of chillies in Andhra Pradesh. The Intense and vibrant colour of Guntur chillies is relished by people all over the world. Further, new modern agricultural techniques with strong irrigation facilities have strengthened the role of the state in chilli production in India.
2. Telangana
The next state that is the leading producer of chilli in India is Telangana. The state contributes to nearly 20 per cent of chilli production in India. Telangana shares similar geographical and climate conditions to Andhra Pradesh and follows it closely in chilli production in India. In the state Warangal and Khammam districts of the state are the highest producers of chilies. The chillies produced in Telangana are consumed domestically and also exported to other countries like the USA, UK and Southeast Asia.
3. Madhya Pradesh
Madhya Pradesh is the third-largest chili-producing state in India. It contributes to nearly 12 per cent of the total chilli output in India. The state is quickly emerging as a key player in India’s chilli production. With the development of improved irrigation facilities and a strong focus on organic farming, the state has managed to increase its chilli production. In the state, chilli production is mainly focused in the districts of Indore and Khandwa. The state production of chilli is mainly catered to the demands of the domestic market.
4. Karnataka
Karnataka is also the highest producer of chillies in India. The districts in north Karnataka such as Chitradurga, Bellary and Koppal are well-known producers of chillies in India. Karnataka contributes to 10 per cent of total India’s chilli production. Byadgi chillies are highly produced in the state of Karnataka; these chillies are less spicy and widely used in South Indian cooking. The state’s climate and soil conditions are conducive to cultivating this unique variety. Karnataka’s chillies are widely exported, especially for the production of natural food colouring agents. Through the utilization of the latest technologies and market linkages, chilli farming in the state has improved.
5. Odisha
The last state on our list of the largest chilli production in India is Odisha. Odisha is well-known for the production of rice and seafood. It is also the largest contributor of chillies in India. Districts like Koraput, Rayagada and Malkangiri provide a base for the cultivation of chillies in the state. The fertile soil of the land and also innovation in agricultural practices are the main reasons for the rise in the productivity of chillies in the state. The state is providing necessary financial aid to the chilli farmers and has strengthened the market for the crop in the state.
Conclusion
The five largest chili-producing states of India in 2025 are Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka and Odisha. This state benefits from favourable climate conditions, fertile soil and the adoption of different agricultural practices that have significantly boosted chilli production in India. The contributions of these states are not only essential for meeting the country’s spice needs but also for maintaining India’s position as a major exporter. The ongoing improvement in advanced agricultural practices and government support is likely to continue leading the charge in chilli production in the world.
Parkash Singh is a PGT Teacher in Kendriya Vidyalaya Rohini, New Delhi. Parkash completed his starting education from Bihar Board and graduated from Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar Bihar University. He regularly writes educational and informative articles at IndiasStuffs.com
Page Contents