FCI’s Central Pool Stocks Strong in October 2025; Rice and Wheat Far Above Buffer Norms

14-Oct-2025 09:13 PM

According to the Food Corporation of India (FCI), the total foodgrain stock in the central pool stood at 676.43 lakh tons as of October 1, 2025. This is about 128 lakh tons higher than the same period last year (548.42 lakh tons in October 2024).

As per FCI data, rice stocks were 356.1 lakh tons, slightly lower than 369.06 lakh tons in September 2025. However, rice stocks remain significantly higher compared to 310.59 lakh tons in October 2024 and 221.87 lakh tons in 2023.

The current rice stock is about 150.9 lakh tons above the buffer norm of 205.2 lakh tons.

Wheat stocks were reported at 320.33 lakh tons, marginally down from 332.97 lakh tons in September 2025, but much higher than 237.83 lakh tons in 2024 and 239.95 lakh tons in 2023.

According to FCI, wheat stocks are about 217.8 lakh tons above the buffer norm of 102.5 lakh tons.

Overall, the total foodgrain stock (rice + wheat) in October 2025 stood at 676.43 lakh tons, more than double the combined buffer norm of 307.7 lakh tons.

The higher stock levels are mainly attributed to robust government procurement, steady public distribution, and export control measures.

Stocks of unmilled paddy stood at 139.22 lakh tons, slightly lower than September levels, while coarse grain stocks declined marginally to 3.18 lakh tons.