Growth and Production Trends of Soybean (Glycine max L.) in the Different Agro-Climatic Zones of Madhya Pradesh, India

Soybean (Glycine max L.), a vital oilseed crop with over 40% protein and 20% oil, plays a critical role in India’s edible oil economy. Madhya Pradesh, the “Soya State,” contributed 48.4% of national production and 47.8% of area in 2019–20, with average productivity of 1,062 kg/ha. This study analyses trends and growth rates in soybean area, production, and productivity across seven major agro-climatic zones of Madhya Pradesh from 2002–03 to 2019–10, divided into Period I and Period II, using simple growth rate (SGR), compound growth rate (CGR), and trend analysis. In Period I, area expansion was positive and highly significant in most zones, peaking at 9.02% SGR (Others) and 9.26% CGR, with state-level growth of 1.2% (SGR) and 1.21% (CGR). Period II saw contractions in several regions, most notably −11.2% SGR in Central Narmada Valley, while Nimar Valley recorded modest gains (1.4% SGR, 1.13% CGR). Production growth in Period I ranged from 3.77% (Nimar Valley) to 11.92% (Satpuda Plateau), with the state averaging 2.78% (SGR) and 3.02% (CGR). Period II declines were pronounced in Satpuda Plateau (−13.46% SGR) and Gird Region (−8.82% SGR), but Nimar Valley improved sharply (8.28% SGR, 10.41% CGR). Productivity growth in Period I was highest in Satpuda Plateau (7.08% SGR, 7.54% CGR) and Jhabua Hills (7.07% SGR, 7.53% CGR), with the state averaging 1.6% (SGR) and 1.79% (CGR). Period II saw negative growth in several zones, with the Vindhya Plateau dropping −8.31% (SGR). Hence, soybeans’ future in Madhya Pradesh—and by extension, India—depends on adaptive, region-sensitive strategies that marry scientific advancements with grassroots realities.