Top 5 Highest Soybean Producing States in India

Soybean, a vital legume crop, is crucial in India’s agriculture sector. The crop is known for its high protein content and oil; soybean is widely used in food, animal feed, and various industrial products. Over the years, soybean cultivation has expanded significantly in India, contributing to the country’s growing demand for edible oil and protein-rich crops. Soybean production can help increase national food security, reduce dependence on foreign oil imports, and support the economy with soy meal exports. As of 2025, the production landscape of soybeans in India is concentrated in a few states.

1. Madhya Pradesh

The first state on our list of the highest soybean-producing states in India is Madhya Pradesh. The Soybean Bowl of India Madhya Pradesh continues to lead soybean production in India, earning it the title. This state significantly contributes to soybean production in the country and accounts for over 40% of the country’s total soybean output. Madhya Pradesh has an average productivity of 1125 kg/ha. The Malwa plateau, with its favourable climate and fertile black soil, provides an ideal environment for soybean cultivation. Districts like Ujjain, Indore, and Dewas are the primary contributors. The state has also benefited from improved farming techniques, hybrid seeds, and government support to enhance productivity.

2. Maharashtra

Maharashtra stands second in most soybean production and it contributes to 25-30% of the national output. It contributes to 48, 25,090 tons of soybean production in India. The Vidarbha and Marathwada regions are particularly important for soybean farming due to their soil quality and favourable monsoon patterns. While the state faces challenges such as water scarcity and unpredictable rainfall, farmers have adapted by using drought-resistant varieties and better irrigation methods. The key regions of the state that are high in Soybean production are Amravati, Nagpur, Buldhana, Latur, and Parbhani.

3. Rajasthan

Rajasthan has emerged as one of the top soybean-producing states, primarily due to the expansion of agriculture in the southeastern part of the state. Districts like Kota and Jhalawar have seen significant growth in soybean acreage over the years. While Rajasthan’s contribution is smaller compared to Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra, the state’s production has been steadily increasing due to improved farming practices and better irrigation infrastructure. Rajasthan climate has not stopped its role in agriculture in India. The state’s innovation in agricultural techniques has allowed it to cultivate this versatile crop in hard conditions.

4. Karnataka

Karnataka also plays a major role in the production of soya beans in India. It produces an average of 9.5q/ha annually. Soybean is a resilient crop that can perform well in the rain-fed kharif season, even in the face of adverse weather conditions. This quality of soybean makes it an ideal crop to grow in Karnataka. The crop benefits from the good climate conditions of the state and also from the adoption of better farming techniques by the farmers. Karnataka government has been providing support to farmers through enhancement in research and development and the use of suitable production technologies.

5. Telangana

The last state on our list that is the largest producer of Soybeans in India is Telangana. The state thrives as a soybean-producing state due to its favourable climate and soil conditions that allow for cultivating high-quality soybeans. The districts with the largest areas of soybean production were Nirmal, Adilabad, Sangareddy, Kamareddy, and Nizamabad. With the establishment of a soybean seed processing unit in Gandhari, Kamareddy district has further increased its productivity. Telangana state government has been helping soybean farmers in the cultivation of the crop by providing support in the form of techniques and training.

Conclusion

India ranks fifth in soybean production in the world. The production of the crop is affected by several factors, including climate, soil quality and choice of cultivation. Weather conditions play a vital role in the cultivation of the crop throughout its growth phase. The states in India that contribute significantly to soybean production are Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Karnataka and Telangana. These states have overcome the challenges faced in the production of soybeans and are successful in increasing their productivity in the country. With a raise in demand for the crop in coming years, India is ready to meet this demand and increase its productivity.