Published Jan 22, 2026 4 Min Read

Understanding Rice Mill

 
 

Rice milling is a crucial step in the rice production process, converting paddy into polished, market-ready rice. Modern rice mills improve efficiency, reduce wastage, and maintain quality, making them essential for commercial rice production in India. For businesses planning to set up or upgrade a rice mill, understanding financing options early can make the investment process smoother—you can check your business loan eligibility to see how much funding you qualify for.

What is a rice mill?

A rice mill is an industrial facility that processes paddy to remove husks and bran layers, producing polished rice. These mills can vary from small-scale units to fully automated plants capable of processing several tons per day. 

Various types of rice mills

Rice mills in India are broadly classified as:

  • Traditional or hand-operated mills
  • Semi-automatic mills
  • Fully automatic or modern rice mills

Types of rice milling machines

Common machinery includes:

  • Paddy cleaners and graders
  • De-huskers and hullers
  • Polishing machines and separators

Price of rice milling machines in India

TypeApproximate price range (Rs.)
Small-scale rice mill5 lakh – 10 lakh
Medium-scale rice mill15 lakh – 40 lakh
Large-scale/automatic rice mill50 lakh – 2 crore

Cost of setting up a rice mill in India

Setting up a rice mill involves costs for land, machinery, installation, and working capital. With proper financial planning, businesses can expand without straining resources. Tools like Machinery Loan and Industrial Equipment Finance can fund machinery purchase, while you can also check your pre-approved business loan offer for additional working capital.

Breakdown of rice mill project cost

ComponentApproximate cost (Rs.)
Land and building10 lakh – 50 lakh
Machinery20 lakh – 1 crore
Installation and commissioning5 lakh – 15 lakh
Working capital5 lakh – 20 lakh

Key factors that impact rice mill profitability

Profitability depends on machinery efficiency, production capacity, labour costs, energy usage, and quality control. Modern rice mills with automation reduce operational costs and improve margins. 

Financing options for setting up a rice mill in India

Rice mill investments can be financed through:

Conclusion

Setting up a rice mill requires careful planning, the right machinery, and strategic financing. Accessing funds through a business loan, monitoring the business loan interest rate, and using a business loan eligibility calculator or a pre-approved business loan offer can streamline the process and help businesses invest confidently for long-term growth.

Check your pre-approved business loan offer

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average profit margin for a rice mill business in India?

The average profit margin for a rice mill business in India typically ranges from 20% to 40%. Factors such as the scale of operations, location, and demand for rice play a significant role in determining profitability. By investing in modern machinery and efficient processes, entrepreneurs can increase their profit margins. Bajaj Finserv Business Loan can help you invest in the latest technology to maximise your returns.

What is the difference between a mini rice mill and a commercial rice mill?

Mini rice mills are small-scale operations designed for local markets, requiring less space and investment. They process smaller quantities of paddy and are easier to manage. In contrast, commercial rice mills are large-scale facilities catering to domestic and export markets. They require higher investment and infrastructure but offer greater production capacity and revenue potential.

How much electricity does a modern rice mill consume?

Electricity consumption varies based on the size and capacity of the rice mill. A small-scale rice mill may consume around 50–100 kWh per month, while larger commercial mills can use significantly more, depending on the number and type of machines in operation.

What is the difference between parboiled and raw rice milling?

Parboiled rice milling involves soaking, steaming, and drying the paddy before milling, which enhances the nutritional value and reduces breakage during processing. Raw rice milling skips the soaking and steaming steps, resulting in rice with a different texture and taste. Parboiled rice is often preferred in regions where it is a dietary staple, while raw rice is more common in other areas.

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