Centre Ends Stock Limit and Tightens Wheat Stock Monitoring

The Central Govt. of India has decided not to extend the current stock limit on wheat after its expiry on March 31. Starting April 1, all traders, wholesalers, retailers, and processors must declare their wheat stock levels on a government portal every week to ensure transparency and monitor buying activity.

Wheat Stock Limit Expiry and Mandatory Declarations

The government will no longer allow a stock limit beyond March 31. Instead, entities must update their wheat stock on the designated portal every Friday until further notice. This step aims to prevent hoarding, curb speculation, and maintain food security. Unregistered entities are also required to register immediately and start disclosing their stock levels.

Government Measures to Curb Hoarding

Officials from the Department of Food and Public Distribution have intensified monitoring of wheat stocks. They aim to manage food security effectively and control prices in the domestic market. The government expects that continuous reporting will reduce the potential for speculative buying or overstocking.

Procurement and Arrival Trends

Procurement has begun earlier than usual in key producing states. In Madhya Pradesh, for example, over 100,000 tonnes have been purchased since March 15. Overall, the Agmarknet portal reports that total mandi arrivals from March 1 to 24 reached over 2 million tonnes, compared to about 1.5 million tonnes in the same period last year.

The Department of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare estimates that overall wheat production will exceed the 115 million tonne target for the current crop year (July–June). With domestic supply supported by robust procurement and rising mandi arrivals, market prices may remain bullish despite recent price softness.