In a bid to safeguard food security and curb unscrupulous practices in the food market, the Government of India has enforced stock limits on wheat for various entities across all States and Union Territories. This initiative, put forth under the Removal of Licensing Requirements, Stock Limits, and Movement Restrictions on Specified Foodstuffs (Amendment) Order, 2023, aims to regulate stockpiling and prevent speculative activities until 31st March 2024.
The revised wheat stock limits delineate specific quantities allowed for traders, retailers, big chain retailers, and processors. The stringent measures require entities to register on the wheat stock limit portal and update their stock position every Friday. Violations or failure to comply with these regulations will result in punitive action under the Essential Commodities Act, 1955.
Entities falling under the prescribed stock limits must adjust their stocks accordingly within 30 days from the issuance of the notification. Government officials at both Central and State levels will vigilantly oversee the enforcement of these limits to avert any artificial scarcity of wheat in the country.
Additionally, the Government has taken significant steps through the Open Market Sale Scheme (Domestic) [OMSS(D)]. Over 101.5 LMT of wheat, priced at Rs. 2150/quintal, has been allocated for weekly e-auctions by the Food Corporation of India (FCI), augmenting the availability of wheat in the domestic market at affordable prices. Further, an additional 25 LMT can be offloaded under OMSS during Jan-Mar 2024, based on demand.
To boost wheat availability, FCI has increased the weekly quantity offered through e-auction from 3 LMT to 4 LMT. Moreover, FCI is channeling wheat to Central Co-operative organizations for processing into atta and sale under the ‘Bharat Atta’ brand at an economical price of Rs. 27.50/kg. The quantities supplied for Bharat Atta have been raised to 4 LMT till the end of January 2024.
The Department of Food and Public Distribution maintains a vigilant stance on wheat stocks, ensuring a balanced market and adequate availability across the country. These initiatives signify the Government’s concerted efforts to stabilize wheat prices and guarantee seamless access to this essential commodity for all citizens.