★ The results of the first wheat tender conducted by the Food Corporation of India (FCI) on 12 November 2025 have been released. A total of 2 lakh tonnes was allocated in this tender. Bids were received for 49,192 tonnes, out of which 46,326 tonnes were accepted. The highest bid came from Kerala at ₹2,919 per quintal, while the lowest bid was ₹2,550 from Madhya Pradesh. The average bid price stood at ₹2,754 per quintal (excluding freight).

★ In comparison, FCI’s first wheat tender last year on 4 December 2024 had an allocation of 1 lakh tonnes, of which 98,470 tonnes were accepted. At that time, the highest bid was ₹3,157 (Assam) and the lowest was ₹2,690 (Tamil Nadu). The average bid price was ₹2,995 per quintal (including freight). Thus, there has been a decline of ₹241 per quintal between the average prices of the two tenders.

★ Currently, there is abundant wheat availability in the open market. All states have surplus stocks, and market prices are stable. Wheat in Delhi was priced at ₹2,830 per quintal on 12 November 2025, compared to ₹3,160 per quintal on the same date last year — a drop of ₹330.

★ Despite stable prices and adequate supply, FCI’s sudden decision to begin OMSS wheat sales has raised questions within the industry.

★ When there was neither any shortage in the market nor any unusual price increase, stakeholders are asking why there was a need to implement this scheme immediately.

★ Many millers and traders expressed surprise, stating that the decision seems to have been taken “without any immediate necessity.” With stock limits already in place and prices stable, this move is not seen as a positive signal for the industry.

★ Given all the above factors, it now appears that OMSS wheat tenders may be issued once every two weeks instead of every week.