Indian Basmati Rice Legacy: Traditional, Taste, and International Trust
Indian Basmati rice is unique, long-grain aromatic rice that is cultivated in the Indian subcontinent in a specific geographical region in the Himalayan foothills as well as in other states of the country. This rice is known for its long, thin grains, which expand to at least double their original size when cooked. Its unique soft and attractive texture, delicious flavor along with excellent aroma highlights its specialty and also makes it distinct from other aromatic long grain rice.
Its excellence is due not only to its naturally fertile soil and climate, but also to the ancient techniques that have been used for generations to care for this rice. Indian Basmati rice is internationally known as "fragrant pearls" for its distinctive aroma and long, thin grains, as well as its distinctive flavor that distinguishes it as a premium brand. Its use adds a touch of excellence to any dish.
It even makes the simplest food delicious. It is this unique characteristic that has made Indian Basmati rice a favorite choice among chefs and food lovers across the world, further cementing its position as a symbol of quality and luxury in global cuisine.
India: A Global Leader in Basmati Rice Cultivation
A large part of the international demand for basmati rice is met by produce from India, where it is produced more than any other country in the world. A small part of it is grown organically while efforts are being made by organizations like "Kheti Virasat Mission" to increase its quantity in Punjab, Himachal Pradesh and Haryana of India.
Some other states in India which have Geographical Indications for Basmati rice production are Uttarakhand, Bihar, Delhi, Western Uttar Pradesh, Odisha and Jammu and Kashmir.
Top Dishes Using Basmati Rice in India and Worldwide
Here are the top dishes made from Basmati rice in India and around the world:
Popular Basmati Rice Dishes in India
- Hyderabadi Biryani: A royal dish made by layering basmati rice with marinated meat or vegetables and slow-cooking with spices. It's rich, aromatic, and full of flavor.
- Vegetable Pulao: A one-pot meal with rice, mixed vegetables, and mild spices. Easy to make and perfect for lunch or dinner.
- Khichdi: Soft rice and lentils cooked together with ghee and mild spices. It's a comfort food loved across India.
- Curd Rice: Cooked rice mixed with yogurt and tempered with curry leaves and mustard seeds. It's cooling and good for digestion.
- Lemon Rice: A tangy dish made with lemon juice, turmeric, and mustard seeds. Popular in South India.
- Fish Pulao (Bengali Style): Basmati rice cooked with marinated fish and light spices. A festive favorite in Bengal.
- Sweet Pongal: A very tasty and sweet dish made from basmati rice, jaggery, ghee and cardamom which is often made on festivals.
Famous Basmati Rice Dishes Worldwide
- Persian Tahdig: Crispy rice cooked with saffron and yogurt. Known for its golden crust.
- Middle Eastern Kabsa: Rice cooked with lamb, spices, nuts, and raisins. Served during gatherings.
- Thai Pineapple Fried Rice: A mix of rice, pineapple, shrimp, and cashews. Sweet and savory.
- Jamaican Rice and Peas: Coconut-flavored rice with kidney beans. Often served with jerk chicken.
- Spanish Arroz con Pollo: Basmati rice with chicken, bell peppers, and peas. A colorful and comforting dish.
- Afghan Pulao: Rice with lamb, carrots, raisins, and almonds. Rich and aromatic.
- Lebanese Mujadara: Rice with lentils and caramelized onions. Simple and healthy.
- British Kedgeree: Basmati rice with smoked fish, eggs, and curry spices. A fusion of Indian and British flavors.
Production and Export of Basmati Rice in India: A Statistical Glimpse
- 2011–12 (July–June): India's total basmati production was 5 million tons.
- 2018–19 (April–March): India exported 4.4 million metric tons of Basmati rice.
- 2020–21: India's total rice production was 124.37 lakh tons.
- 2021–22: It increased to 129.47 lakh tons.
- 2022–23: Total rice production reaches 130.84 lakh tons.
- The production of Basmati rice was estimated at 11 million tons in the same year.
- 2023–24: Basmati production increases to 13 million tons.
- 2024 (according to Eximpedia.app): Estimated Basmati production is 8 million tons, showing a growth of 23% over the previous year.
In the last few years, the production of Basmati rice has been continuously increasing in India, as a result of which India has become the largest producer and exporter of Basmati rice in the world.
India's Basmati Rice Export Trends (2015–2024)
Over the past decade, India has solidified its position as a global leader in Basmati rice exports, consistently supplying to a wide range of countries across the Middle East, Western regions, and beyond.
Key Export Destinations
- Top Global Importers: Saudi Arabia, Iran, Iraq, United Arab Emirates (UAE), Yemen, United States, and United Kingdom.
- Saudi Arabia has frequently ranked as the largest importer, both in volume and revenue.
- In FY 2015–16, Saudi Arabia, Iran, and UAE together accounted for over 50 % of India's total Basmati exports.
Export Performance & Trends
- India exported 5.24 million metric tons of Indian basmati rice in FY 2023-24, with Saudi Arabia, Iran, Iraq, Yemen, and the UAE being the countries in the highest demand.
- Saudi Arabia alone imported over 1 million metric tons in FY 2024.
- The share of exports to the top 10 destinations declined slightly from 80% in FY 2021–22 to 77.5% in FY 2023–24, indicating growing diversification.
- Iran, UAE, and Kuwait saw reduced shares in FY 2023–24, while other major destinations increased their intake.
- By FY 2024–25, India expanded its reach to 154 countries, up from 150 the previous year.
- Notable growth was observed in exports to Algeria and Kenya during the April–November 2024 period.
India’s Basmati rice exports have remained robust and strategically focused on Middle Eastern and Western markets. At the same time, the country is steadily broadening its global footprint, tapping into emerging markets and diversifying its export portfolio.
Major Types of Indian Basmati Rice
| Variety | Protein (per 100g) | Other Nutrients | Main Producing States |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pusa Basmati 1121 | 8.5g | Low fat, 78g Carbs, 1g Fiber | Punjab, Haryana, Western UP |
| Pusa Basmati 1509 | 8.2g | Low fat, 77g Carbs, 1g Fiber | Punjab, Haryana |
| Traditional Basmati | 7.5g | Rich aroma, 76g Carbs, 1g Fiber | Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, J&K |
| Ranbir Basmati | 8g | Aromatic, 77g Carbs, 1g Fiber | Jammu & Kashmir |
| Dehraduni Basmati | 7.8g | Nutty flavor, 76g Carbs, 1g Fiber | Uttarakhand (Dehradun Region) |
| Basmati 370 | 8g | Aromatic, 77g Carbs, 1g Fiber | Punjab, Himachal Pradesh |
| Pusa Basmati 1401 | 8.3g | Long grain, 78g Carbs, 1g Fiber | Punjab, Haryana |
| Brown Basmati Rice | 9g | High fiber (3.5g), Magnesium, Low GI | Haryana, Punjab |
| Golden Sella Basmati | 8.8g | Parboiled, High in Iron, Low GI | Punjab, Haryana |
Nutritional values are approximate and can vary slightly by brand and processing method.
Top Producing States in India
- Punjab – Highest production, known for Pusa varieties
- Haryana – Major exporter, especially of 1121 and 1509
- Uttarakhand & Himachal Pradesh – Traditional aromatic varieties like Dehraduni
- Jammu & Kashmir – Ranbir Basmati and other local types
- Western Uttar Pradesh – Expanding cultivation of hybrid basmati
These regions benefit from the Himalayan foothills' climate, which enhances aroma and grain quality.
Best Dishes by Variety
- Pusa 1121 & 1509 – Ideal for biryani, fried rice, and restaurant-style pulao
- Traditional & Dehraduni – Perfect for festive dishes, pilafs, and heritage recipes
- Brown Basmati – Great for healthy bowls, diabetic-friendly meals, and fiber-rich diets
- Golden Sella – Preferred in commercial kitchens for its firmness and non-sticky texture
How Indian Basmati Rice Exporters Bring Premium Rice to the World
Indian basmati rice exporters play a crucial role in connecting India's agricultural heritage with the global market. By combining traditional farming with modern logistics, they ensure that the rich aroma and long grains of Basmati rice reach plates across continents. These exporters maintain quality standards, navigate international trade regulations, and build lasting relationships with global buyers—making India the trusted source for premium rice worldwide.
Key Contributions of Indian Basmati Rice Exporters
- Quality Assurance: They follow strict grading, milling, and packaging protocols to maintain international standards.
- Global Reach: Exporters work with overseas distributors, retailers, and online platforms to ensure widespread availability.
- Logistics & Supply Chain Management: They coordinate efficient transportation and timely delivery across regions.
- Market Expansion: Exporters explore and penetrate new markets through trade fairs, sampling, and promotional campaigns.
- Farmer Collaboration: They support farming communities with fair pricing, technical guidance, and sustainable practices.
- Compliance & Documentation: Exporters handle complex documentation and regulatory compliance to meet import laws worldwide.
Maa Laxmi Enterprise: Leading Indian Basmati Rice Exporters Since 2021
At Maa Laxmi Enterprise, we bring India's premium Basmati rice to kitchens around the world. Established in 2021, we have swiftly earned recognition as one of the most reliable and quality-focused exporters of aromatic long-grain Basmati rice. Registered with all major government and export authorities, including APEDA and FSSAI, we ensure full compliance with international trade norms—giving partners complete confidence in every shipment.
Why Choose Maa Laxmi Enterprise?
- Certified Excellence: Fully registered with APEDA, FSSAI, and other regulatory bodies for rice export.
- Quality First: We maintain strict grading, hygienic processing, and precision packaging standards.
- Global Presence: Supplying to multiple countries across Asia, Europe, Africa, and the Middle East.
- On-Time Delivery: Robust logistics and export systems for reliable supply chain management.
- Farm-to-Table Ethics: Supporting local farmers while promoting sustainable agricultural practices.
- Trusted Partnerships: Built on transparency, trust, and a commitment to long-term growth.
Ready to Serve the World
Whether you're a wholesaler, distributor, or food brand seeking authentic Indian Basmati rice, Maa Laxmi Enterprise stands as one of top Indian basmati rice exporters ready to full fill your needs with quality and care.