Top 5 Highest Barley Producing States in India

Barley, a versatile cereal grain, is an essential crop in India due to its uses in food, beverages, and animal feed. The crop is known for its sustainability and ability to thrive in cooler climates, barley has a significant role in the agricultural sector, especially in northern India. In 2025, the demand for barley, driven by its growing use in brewing, health foods, and as a dietary staple, remains robust. Here’s a look at the top 5 highest barley-producing states in India that contribute to the bulk of the nation’s output.

1. Rajasthan

Rajasthan continues to lead India in barley production, accounting for over 40% of the country’s total output in 2025. The state’s dry climate and semi-arid conditions are ideal for barley cultivation. Barley is grown extensively in districts like Jaipur, Alwar, and Tonk, where it is a key Rabi (winter) crop. Rajasthan’s barley is primarily used in the malting industry, supporting the growing demand from breweries. Additionally, barley is a significant part of the food system in rural areas, consumed as porridge or in flatbreads. The state has adopted advanced farming techniques and breeding that have helped it produce a higher crop yield.

2. Uttar Pradesh

Uttar Pradesh ranks second in largest barley production in India. The state’s fertile Indo-Gangetic plains provide favourable conditions for the cultivation of barley with high yields. Barley is an important winter crop in the state and is grown across districts like Meerut, Agra, and Etah. The crop is vital for both food consumption and as fodder for livestock. UP’s barley is increasingly used in health-conscious food products like barley flour and soups, given the grain’s high nutritional value. The state also supplies barley to malting industries. The state Contribution of Barely towards the total country’s output is around 20-25 per cent. Further, the state has adopted eco-friendly and farmer-friendly reforms that have boosted the cultivation of the crop.

3. Punjab

Punjab is famous for its agricultural sector in India. The state plays a key role in the production of a variety of crops. Punjab also plays a key role in India’s barley production. Although primarily a wheat-growing region, barley is cultivated as an important Rabi crop in the state’s northern districts. Punjab’s high-yielding barley varieties are primarily grown for malting purposes, supporting the state’s thriving brewing industry. With its modern farming techniques and efficient use of irrigation, Punjab’s barley farms achieve impressive yields, despite the state’s relatively smaller area under barley cultivation compared to wheat. The key barley-producing districts of the state are Ludhiana, Patiala, and Bathinda.

 4. Madhya Pradesh

Madhya Pradesh has emerged as a significant barley-producing state, ranking fourth in India’s barley production. The state’s moderate climate during the winter season makes it ideal for barley cultivation. Major barley-producing areas include the districts of Bhopal, Hoshangabad, and Sehore. While the state traditionally grew wheat as the primary Rabi crop, farmers have increasingly turned to barley due to its lower water requirement and growing market demand from breweries and food industries. The state contribution is around 10-15% to national barley production.

5. Haryana

Haryana ranks fifth in barley production, thanks to its advanced irrigation systems and fertile soils. Barley cultivation in Haryana is focused on meeting the needs of both the malting industry and the local fodder market. The state’s farmers often prefer barley for its shorter growing season and ability to withstand harsher conditions compared to wheat. Barley is cultivated in districts like Karnal, Panipat, and Sonipat, where agricultural practices are highly mechanized, contributing to higher yields. The key Districts of Haryana that produce barley are Karnal, Panipat, and Sonipat. Haryana’s contribution of barley is around 8-10% to national production.

Conclusion

Barley is a crucial crop for traditional agriculture and emerging industries like brewing and health foods. The top five barley-producing states Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Madhya Pradesh and Haryana together form the backbone of India’s barley production. As consumer awareness around the health benefits of barley grows, along with the rising demand for malted barley in the beverage industry, these states are set to continue their dominance in the coming years. With advances in farming practices and increasing market demand, India’s barley production is poised for further growth.