India has ample stocks of rice, wheat, pulses, sugar, and edible oil, says Union Minister Pralhad Joshi. Citizens are urged not to panic or hoard, as food supplies exceed buffer norms. Misleading reports will be dealt with under the Essential Commodities Act.
Union Minister for Consumer Affairs, Pralhad Joshi, stated on Friday that there is no shortage of essential commodities in India. Addressing concerns about food security and market availability, the minister confirmed that the government maintains ample reserves of rice, wheat, sugar, pulses, and edible oil, which far exceed the national buffer norms.
“We have enough stock of all essential items. There is absolutely no need to panic or rush to markets. Citizens should not fall for misleading information or rumours,” Joshi said.
Providing detailed figures, the minister highlighted that India currently holds 356.42 lakh metric tonnes (LMT) of rice, compared to a buffer norm of 135 LMT. Similarly, the wheat stock is at 383.32 LMT, surpassing the required buffer of 276 LMT. This surplus, he explained, ensures continued national food security and stability in supply chains.
In terms of pulses, Joshi reassured that stocks of chana, tur, masoor, and moong are well above the required levels. The edible oil sector also reflects stability, with India currently holding around 17 LMT of edible oil stocks. Domestically, the supply of mustard oil is steady and further bolstered by the ongoing peak production season.
Speaking on the sugar industry, the minister informed that the 2024–25 sugar season began with a carry-over stock of 79 LMT, and production is estimated at 262 LMT, even after accounting for 34 LMT diverted to ethanol production. As of now, 257 LMT of sugar has already been produced. Considering a domestic consumption estimate of 280 LMT and exports of 10 LMT, the closing stock is expected to be around 50 LMT—enough to cover over two months of national demand.
Joshi also projected a positive outlook for the 2025–26 sugar season, citing favourable climatic conditions as a key factor for continued stable production.
Emphasising the need for responsible behaviour, the minister warned against hoarding and the spread of false information. “Do not fall prey to propaganda or panic-buying,” Joshi said. “Any individual or business entity involved in hoarding or stockpiling will face legal consequences under the Essential Commodities Act.”
He urged all traders, wholesalers, and retailers dealing with essential commodities to comply fully with government regulations and assist enforcement authorities if required.
The government’s message is clear: there is no crisis of food or essential items. With strong stocks across all major commodities and a robust production outlook, the current supply situation remains well under control. Citizens are advised to stay informed through verified channels and avoid reacting to unverified social media posts or news reports.
