'Stocks many times higher than normal needs': Pralhad Joshi allays fear of shortage of essential commodities

'Whether it is rice, wheat, or pulses such as chana, tur, masoor, or moong, there is absolutely no shortage, and citizens are advised not to panic or rush to the markets to purchase food grains', Joshi said.

New Delhi: Union Minister for Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution  Pralhad Joshi on Frida said that there is no shortage of essential commodities in the country.

Asking public not to fall prey to misleading reports, Joshi said, “I want to assure everyone that we currently have stocks many times higher than the normal requirement—whether it is rice, wheat, or pulses such as chana, tur, masoor, or moong. There is absolutely no shortage, and citizens are advised not to panic or rush to the markets to purchase food grains." 

“Don’t believe in propaganda messages regarding food stocks in the country. We have ample food stocks, far exceeding required norms. DONT PAY HEED TO SUCH MESSAGES. Traders, wholesalers, retailers or business entities which engage in trading of Essential Commodities are directed to cooperate with Law Enforcement agencies. Any person indulging in hoarding or stockpiling, shall be prosecuted under relevant sections of the Essential Commodities Act, " Joshi posted on X. 

Pertinently, the current Rice stock stands at 356.42 lakh metric tonnes (LMT) against a buffer norm of 135 LMT. Similarly, Wheat stock is 383.32 LMT against a buffer norm of 276 LMT. Thus, demonstrating a strong surplus over the required buffer norms, ensuring nationwide food security, he said. 

In addition, India currently holds approximately 17 LMT of edible oil stocks. Domestically, the availability of mustard oil is ample during the ongoing peak production season, further supplementing edible oil supply, a statement from  Food Ministry said. 

The ongoing sugar season started with a carry-over stock of 79 LMT. Production is estimated at 262 LMT, after accounting for the diversion of 34 LMT for ethanol production.

As of now, around 257 LMT of sugar has already been produced. Considering the domestic consumption of 280 LMT and exports of 10 LMT, the closing stock is expected to be around 50 LMT which is more than the consumption of two months. The production outlook for the 2025–26 sugar season is also promising due to favorable climatic conditions, the statement added.