Wheat Arrivals in Punjab Lower Than Last Year, Offtake Situation Improved
08-May-2026 12:18 PM
New Delhi: The Union Ministry of Food, Consumer Affairs, and Public Distribution has clarified that, during the current Rabi marketing season up to May 6, 2026, approximately 122 lakh tonnes of wheat arrived in Punjab's *mandis* (wholesale markets).
This figure is lower than the 125 lakh tonnes recorded during the corresponding period in 2025. On the other hand, the pace of wheat offtake—the lifting of grain purchased within the *mandis* (at government procurement centers)—has been faster this time around. By May 6, 2026, a total of 78.96 lakh tonnes of wheat had been evacuated from the *mandis* and transported to secure storage centers, whereas 75.63 lakh tonnes were lifted during the same period last year. Consequently, despite the lower arrivals, the higher rate of evacuation has prevented the accumulation of wheat stocks within the state's *mandis*.
The Ministry of Food states that a comprehensive plan has been formulated for the current season to lift wheat stocks directly from the *mandis* and deliver them to their final destinations.
Under this initiative, approximately 3.50 lakh tonnes of wheat were transported to their respective destinations via a direct delivery system in April 2026. For May 2026, the target under this system is to transport 6.60 lakh tonnes of wheat stock. In June, too, an additional 8 lakh tonnes of wheat are expected to be delivered directly.
Thus, during the first quarter (April–June) of the ongoing Rabi marketing season, a total of 18 lakh tonnes of wheat could be delivered directly, thereby reducing the burden on Punjab's warehouses.
The lifting of wheat from the *mandis* is proceeding at a relatively brisk pace, which is proving highly effective in alleviating congestion within these markets. This scheme is likely to be continued in the future as well.
Meanwhile, the arrival of wheat in Punjab's *mandis* has now begun to decline rapidly. The official procurement window for wheat in the state is scheduled from April 1 to May 15. Special arrangements involving railway rakes have been made to facilitate the swift evacuation of wheat from Punjab.