Union Minister for Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution and New and Renewable Energy, Pralhad Joshi, has assured the nation that there is no lack of vital commodities, including food grains and edible oils, across the country.
Speaking on public concerns, the Minister highlighted that current stock levels of essential items are pointedly higher than the required buffer norms, and citizens need not become panicky or resort to panic buying.
“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 rush to the markets to purchase food grains,” Joshi said.
He advised people to ignore confusing messages circulating on various platforms, reiterating the government's readiness to deal with any false scarcity created through hoarding or misrepresentation.
In a tweet, the Union Minister stated, “Don’t believe in propaganda messages regarding food stocks in the country. We have ample food stocks, far exceeding required norms. DON’T PAY HEED TO SUCH MESSAGES.”
He further warned that traders, wholesalers, retailers, and business entities involved in the trading of essential commodities must cooperate with law enforcement activities.
He warned that any individual or group found indulging in hoarding or stockpiling would face strict legal action under relevant sections of the Essential Commodities Act.
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Providing data to substantiate his assurance, Joshi noted that the current rice stock stands at 356.42 Lakh Metric Tonnes (LMT), far above the buffer norm of 135 LMT. Similarly, the wheat stock is at 383.32 LMT, exceeding the buffer requirement of 276 LMT. These figures highlight a substantial surplus and reflect the government’s strong inventory position to ensure uninterrupted nationwide food supply.
In terms of edible oil, the country holds approximately 17 LMT in stock, with domestic mustard oil availability remaining robust during the ongoing peak production season. This has helped maintain a steady supply of edible oil in the market.
Concerning sugar, the current season began with a carry-over stock of 79 LMT. The estimated production stands at 262 LMT, even after the diversion of 34 LMT for ethanol production. So far, around 257 LMT of sugar has already been produced. Given a domestic consumption estimate of 280 LMT and expected exports of 10 LMT, the closing stock is projected to be around 50 LMT—equivalent to more than two months of national consumption. The outlook for the 2025–26 sugar season also remains positive, supported by favourable climatic conditions.
The Minister’s statement reaffirms the government's preparedness and commitment to protection food security and curbing needless market panic through timely communication and strict regulatory oversight.
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