Wheat Stock in Central Pool Stands at Approximately 417 Lakh Tonnes

19-May-2026 05:19 PM

New Delhi: Driven by a substantial carry-over stock from the previous season and robust procurement during the ongoing Rabi marketing season, the total wheat inventory in the Central Pool has surged to over 416.90 lakh tonnes (approaching 417 lakh tonnes).

This figure significantly exceeds the minimum buffer norm of 275.80 lakh tonnes mandated for July 1st. This substantial stock position will assist the government in ensuring national food security and in curbing any potential spikes in market prices.

The Union Ministry of Agriculture has projected a wheat production of approximately 1,200 lakh tonnes for the current year—a figure considerably higher than the production estimates provided by the trade and industry sectors. In the previous season, production was estimated at 1,180 lakh tonnes.

This year, wheat arrivals in the *mandis* (wholesale markets) have been lower by about 20 lakh tonnes compared to last year; however, government procurement has witnessed an increase of approximately 6 percent. This provides a clear indication that purchasing activity by the trade and industry sectors has declined this season.

The government has authorized the export of 50 lakh tonnes of whole wheat and 10 lakh tonnes of wheat products for the current year. To alleviate the burden of the massive stocks held in the Central Pool, the Ministry of Food may need to launch the Open Market Sale Scheme (OMSS) earlier than usual this year. Furthermore, the sales quota for wheat under this scheme is also expected to be set at a higher level this time around.