News Capsule: FCI wheat stocks down 4% in October, but hit 4-year high
16-Oct-2025 11:20 AM
News Capsule: FCI wheat stocks down 4% in October, but hit 4-year high
★ As of October 1, the Food Corporation of India (FCI) held 320 lakh tonnes of wheat, down about 4% month-on-month, but still 35% higher year-on-year — the highest level in four years.
★ Wheat stocks have been declining for five consecutive months since June, as this is the period when government distribution under the PDS rises. Still, the current stock remains well above the buffer norm of 205 lakh tonnes.
★ In the 2025–26 rabi marketing season, the government procured 301 lakh tonnes of wheat, up from 266 lakh tonnes a year earlier, supported by strong output and higher minimum support prices (MSP).
★ As of October 1, FCI’s total foodgrain stock stood at 676 lakh tonnes, up from 548 lakh tonnes a year ago. Rice stocks were at 356 lakh tonnes, down 3.5% from the previous month but 15% higher on year — the highest October level in two decades.
★ Despite comfortable wheat stocks, the government remains unwilling to allow exports, saying India needs at least two more good harvests before resuming shipments.
★ Ample domestic availability may delay further Open Market Sale Scheme (OMSS) operations, and prices have softened as a result.