India Maintains Robust Food Stockpile Amid Global Supply Challenges

Sufficient Food Reserves in India

On Monday, C. Shikha, the Joint Secretary of the Department of Food and Public Distribution under the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, announced that India possesses a substantial stock of food grains, exceeding the established norms. Currently, the country holds approximately 22.2 million metric tons (MMT) of wheat and around 38 million metric tons of rice, resulting in a total food stock of nearly 60.2 million metric tons.

Press Conference Insights

During a press conference, Shikha emphasized that the buffer stock of both wheat and rice is three times greater than the required levels. The wheat stock stands at about 22.2 MMT, while rice stock is approximately 38 MMT. This total of around 60.2 MMT is adequate to meet the needs of the Public Distribution System (PDS) as well as any emergency requirements.

Stable Supply from Key Partners

Shikha further elaborated that imports from major partners such as Indonesia, Malaysia, Russia, Ukraine, Argentina, and Brazil are ongoing, ensuring overall supply stability. She noted that improved mustard production has also bolstered domestic availability, particularly in the edible oil sector. The government is closely monitoring the situation and is prepared to intervene if necessary.

Safety of Indian Mariners

Meanwhile, Mukesh Mangal, Additional Secretary of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, reported that all Indian sailors in the West Asia region are safe, and maritime operations remain stable. He mentioned that there have been no incidents involving Indian-flagged vessels in the past 24 hours. Additionally, two Indian-flagged ships carrying LPG, Green Sanghvi and Green Asha, have safely passed through the Strait of Hormuz in the last two days. Currently, there are 16 Indian-flagged vessels in the western Persian Gulf, with a total of 433 Indian sailors on board.