Adequate stock of grains, pulses, sugar and edible oil is available in the country

09-May-2025 08:43 PM

New Delhi. The Central Government has stated that there is an adequate stock of all essential food products in the country and the supply situation remains smooth, ensuring that there is no threat to national food security.

The Union Minister for Food, Consumer Affairs and Public Distribution urged the public not to believe in false reports or misleading messages. He emphasized that the stock of food grains is more than sufficient to meet domestic demand.

The country currently holds a food grain stock of 661.70 lakh tonnes against a domestic requirement of 5.20 lakh tonnes.

Traders, wholesalers, retailers, and business firms have been directed to cooperate with law enforcement agencies, and those found hoarding or manipulating stock will face action under the Essential Commodities Act.

Despite an 18 percent decline in sugar production compared to last year, the sugar industry is expected to start the next marketing season with a surplus of around 54 lakh tonnes, sufficient to meet domestic demand for the first two months until the new season begins in October.

Regarding pulses, the central pool held approximately 18 lakh tonnes as of May 1, 2025, which is below the minimum buffer requirement of 35 lakh tonnes.

However, there is a good stock of moong, masoor, and tuvar, and the arrival of gram has started in the markets. Efforts are ongoing to increase purchases, and a substantial stock of imported yellow peas and domestic produce is available.

The country currently has about 16-17 lakh tonnes of edible oils, which is enough for 20-25 days of domestic demand.

Although this is slightly below the usual monthly requirement due to reduced imports in recent months, the import of pulses and edible oils continues regularly. The overall data confirms that the country has sufficient reserve stock of food grains, sugar, pulses, and edible oils.