500 lakh tonnes of foodgrain stock in central pool due to strong rice inflow

16-Apr-2025 10:57 AM

New Delhi. The central pool foodgrain stock reached 500.03 lakh tonnes as of April 1, 2025, thanks to steady rice supply from ongoing custom milling of Kharif paddy and fresh government procurement.

Though slightly lower than March’s 501.98 lakh tonnes, it marks a significant jump from 376.59 lakh tonnes on the same date last year.

According to official data, rice stock rose from 367.92 lakh tonnes in March to 382.09 lakh tonnes in April. However, wheat stock declined from 134.06 to 117.94 lakh tonnes. Still, wheat availability remains well above the required buffer norm and the 75.02 lakh tonnes level of April 1, 2024.

The wheat procurement season is underway, with the government targeting 312 lakh tonnes for the year, which could further boost central stock.

The FCI also holds 371.51 lakh tonnes of paddy and 1.31 lakh tonnes of coarse grains. With strong stocks, the government is better positioned to manage domestic supply and curb inflationary pressure.