Government Wheat Procurement Likely to be Impacted by Shortage of Gunny Bags

21-Mar-2026 12:07 PM

New Delhi: Although the Central Government has set a procurement target of 303 lakh tonnes of wheat for the 2026 Rabi Marketing Season (April–June), growing apprehensions suggest that the procurement process may be partially disrupted—and potentially delayed—due to the availability of *bardana* (empty gunny bags) falling short of requirements.

This year, the estimated requirement for wheat packaging stands at a total of 36.45 crore bags across key states, including 14.30 crore bags in Punjab, 10 crore in Madhya Pradesh, 8.25 crore in Haryana, 2.50 crore in Rajasthan, and 1.40 crore in Uttar Pradesh. In contrast, the Central Government has sanctioned the procurement of only 23.50 crore bags (new sacks). Assuming an average capacity of 50 kg of wheat per bag, this stock of 36.45 crore bags would theoretically allow for the packaging of approximately 182.25 lakh tonnes of wheat.

In reality, domestic production of gunny bags in India is being adversely affected by the cessation of jute imports from Bangladesh. To address this challenge, the government had kept open the option of utilizing PP (Polypropylene) bags; however, imports of these bags are currently facing delays due to the ongoing conflict in the Gulf region. In light of these circumstances, the government cannot be held responsible for the shortage of gunny bags; rather, it is an unforeseen contingency that is solely to blame. The extent of the delay in importing PP bags will directly correspond to the degree to which wheat procurement is impacted.

Raw materials for PP bags are typically imported from countries such as Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Oman; however, conditions in these regions are currently unstable. The trade and industry sectors need to remain vigilant, as any delay in government procurement could lead to an increased supply and availability of wheat in open (wholesale) markets, thereby creating downward pressure on prices.