Record Commercial Wheat Purchases in Punjab Mandis

23-Apr-2025 11:42 AM

Chandigarh. Punjab, the leading contributor of food grains to India’s central pool, is witnessing a record surge in commercial wheat purchases during the ongoing Rabi marketing season.

As of April 22, 2025, a total of 46.49 lakh tonnes of wheat has been procured in the state, out of which 4.68 lakh tonnes—over 10%—has been bought by private traders, stockists, and flour millers.

This marks a significant shift, as Punjab has traditionally seen low commercial wheat purchases due to high mandi fees and the dominance of government agencies offering wheat at the MSP of ₹2425 per quintal. In contrast, private buyers are offering ₹2630–2640, drawing in more farmers.

The Sangrur district leads with 1.30 lakh tonnes of commercial purchases, followed by Ludhiana (86,000 tonnes), Faridkot (58,000 tonnes), Fazilka (28,000 tonnes), and Bathinda (24,000 tonnes).

The shift is attributed to rising wheat prices in Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan, making local procurement more cost-effective for Punjab’s millers.

Additionally, feed and seed manufacturers and even commission agents with storage capacity are actively stocking wheat, anticipating future gains.