Has the Centre’s wheat purchase at MSP crossed 29.7 million tonnes?
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Synopsis
Discover how the Centre has achieved a significant milestone in wheat procurement for the 2025-26 rabi marketing season, surpassing 29.7 million tonnes. This achievement is not just about numbers; it reflects India’s growing agricultural capabilities and the government's commitment to supporting its farmers.
Key Takeaways
- Wheat procurement has exceeded 29.7 million tonnes.
- 13.5% increase in procurement compared to last year.
- Target set at 312 lakh tonnes for 2025-26 marketing year.
- Major states involved in procurement include Punjab and Haryana.
- 2.27 million farmers benefitted from MSP payments.
New Delhi, May 25 (NationPress) The Central Government has successfully acquired over 29.7 million tonnes (MT) of wheat during the 2025-26 rabi marketing season, which runs from April to June. This marks the highest procurement level since the 2021-22 season, as per official statistics.
The current year's wheat procurement has risen by 13.5 percent compared to the same timeframe last year, with purchases nearing completion in most key producing states, according to data provided by the Food Corporation of India (FCI).
Union Food and Consumer Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi anticipates that the total wheat procurement could reach between 320-325 lakh tonnes due to this year’s record harvest.
In comparison, total wheat purchases for the 2024-25 season were recorded at 265.9 lakh tonnes. The government has set a procurement goal of 312 lakh tonnes for the current marketing year, the minister noted.
According to FCI reports, all five major wheat-producing states—Punjab, Haryana, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh—have reported increased wheat procurement this year compared to last year.
Payments amounting to approximately Rs 62,346.23 crore in minimum support price have been disbursed, benefiting around 2.27 million farmers, as per the data.
On Monday, Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan revealed that India’s total foodgrain production surged by over 106 lakh tonnes, reaching 1,663.91 lakh tonnes in 2024-25, reflecting a 6.83 percent increase from the previous year.
“In the 2023-24 season, the country produced approximately 15,57.6 lakh tonnes. I am pleased to announce that for 2024-25, this has risen to 16,63.91 lakh tonnes,” Chouhan stated during a recent press conference.
“The production of the rabi crop increased from 1600.06 lakh tonnes in 2023-24 to 1645.27 lakh tonnes now,” the minister added.
The Union Minister emphasized that his ministry's vision is not only to fulfill the nation’s food needs but also to position India as the food basket of the world.
Point of View
The increase in wheat procurement signals a positive shift in India's agricultural sector. The government's proactive measures to support farmers through the minimum support price scheme are commendable. However, it is essential to ensure that these policies are sustainable and effectively reach the intended beneficiaries.
NationPress
20/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the total wheat procurement for the current season?
The total wheat procurement for the current 2025-26 season has surpassed 29.7 million tonnes.
How does this year's procurement compare to last year?
This year's procurement has increased by 13.5% compared to the same period last year.
What is the government's target for wheat procurement?
The government has set a target of 312 lakh tonnes for wheat procurement in the 2025-26 marketing year.
Which states are the major wheat producers?
The major wheat-producing states include Punjab, Haryana, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh.
How many farmers have benefited from the minimum support price scheme?
Approximately 2.27 million farmers have benefited from the minimum support price payments totaling Rs 62,346.23 crore.
