India currently has around 222 Lakh Metric Tonnes (LMT) of wheat and approximately 380 LMT of rice, taking the total food stock to about 602 LMT.
India’s Foodgrain Production
- Agricultural exports rose from USD 34.5 billion (FY20) to USD 51.1 billion (FY25), with processed food share increasing to 20.4%, signalling value-added growth.
- Horticulture production reached 362.08 million tonnes, surpassing foodgrain output and indicating a structural shift towards high-value crops.
- India ranks among the top producers globally, being largest producer of pulses (25.68 MT) and millets, 2nd largest producer of rice, wheat and fruits and vegetables.
- Leadership in High-Value Crops with 1st in spices and coconut production and 2nd in sugarcane, cotton, and tea production.
About Buffer Stock
- It is the quantity of foodgrains procured, stored, and maintained by the government to meet emergency requirements, stabilize prices, and ensure supply through welfare schemes.
- These norms are fixed by the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) on a quarterly basis.
- Purpose of Buffer Stock
- Food Security: Ensures availability of food during droughts, floods, or crop failure.
- Price Stabilisation: Prevents sharp rise or fall in food prices.
- Public Distribution System (PDS): Supplies subsidised foodgrains to the poor.
- Emergency Reserve: Acts as a cushion during crises.
