Union Minister for Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution has firmly stated that there is no shortage of essential commodities across the country, urging citizens not to panic or engage in unnecessary bulk buying.
In a statement released on May 9, 2025, the Minister assured the nation that current stocks of key food items, including rice, wheat, and pulses such as chana, tur, masoor, and moong, are “many times higher than the normal requirement.”
He specifically cautioned the public against believing “propaganda messages” circulating about food stocks. In a tweet on X (formerly Twitter), he reiterated that the country possesses ample food reserves, significantly exceeding the required norms. He directed traders, wholesalers, retailers, and other business entities involved in essential commodities to cooperate with law enforcement agencies and warned that any individual found hoarding or stockpiling will face prosecution under relevant sections of the Essential Commodities Act.
The Minister provided concrete figures to support his assurance. Current rice stock stands at a robust 356.42 Lakh Metric Tonnes (LMT), significantly above the buffer norm of 135 LMT. Similarly, wheat stock is at a comfortable 383.32 LMT, exceeding the buffer norm of 276 LMT. These figures, according to the Minister, clearly demonstrate a strong surplus, guaranteeing nationwide food security.
Furthermore, India currently holds approximately 17 LMT of edible oil stocks. The Minister highlighted the ample domestic availability of mustard oil, particularly during the ongoing peak production season, which further bolsters the edible oil supply.
Regarding sugar, the current season began with a substantial carry-over stock of 79 LMT. Production is estimated at 262 LMT, even 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 estimated domestic consumption of 280 LMT and exports of 10 LMT, the closing stock is projected to be around 50 LMT, which is more than enough to cover two months of consumption. The Minister also conveyed a positive outlook for the 2025-26 sugar season, citing favorable climatic conditions.
