Is There Really No Shortage of Essential Commodities?
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Synopsis
The government reassures the public about the ample supply of essential commodities in India, urging citizens to remain calm. Union Minister Pralhad Joshi emphasizes the significant stocks of rice, wheat, and sugar available to ensure food security.
Key Takeaways
- Abundant stocks: There is adequate supply of rice, wheat, and sugar.
- Food security: The government assures no shortage of essential commodities.
- Hoarding consequences: Hoarding will lead to legal action.
- Cooperation required: Traders are urged to work with law enforcement.
- Public advised: Remain calm and avoid panic buying.
New Delhi, May 9 (NationPress) The government has assured citizens that there is no deficiency in essential commodities across the nation, urging the public not to panic or flock to markets for food supplies.
Union Minister for Consumer Affairs, Pralhad Joshi, highlighted that there are sufficient stocks available to meet demands.
The current rice inventory is at 356.42 lakh metric tonnes (LMT), well above the buffer requirement of 135 LMT.
In terms of wheat, the stock is recorded at 383.32 LMT, surpassing the buffer norm of 276 LMT, thereby ensuring food security across the country, the minister stated.
"I want to reassure everyone that our current stocks are significantly higher than the usual requirements—be it rice, wheat, or pulses such as chana, tur, masoor, and moong. There is absolutely no scarcity, and we advise citizens not to panic or rush to the markets to buy food grains," said Joshi.
Furthermore, India currently possesses around 17 LMT of edible oil stocks, with a robust supply of mustard oil available during the peak production season, enhancing the edible oil inventory.
The current sugar season commenced with a carry-over stock of 79 LMT. Production is anticipated to reach 262 LMT, after accounting for the diversion of 34 LMT for ethanol production.
As of now, approximately 257 LMT of sugar has been produced. With domestic consumption expected at 280 LMT and exports of 10 LMT, the closing stock is projected to be around 50 LMT, which is sufficient for over two months of consumption.
The outlook for the upcoming 2025–26 sugar season appears promising due to favorable climatic conditions, the minister stated.
He also advised against falling for misleading information, warning that anyone caught hoarding or stockpiling would face prosecution under the relevant sections of the Essential Commodities Act.
"Do not believe in propaganda regarding food stocks in our country. We have abundant food supplies, far exceeding the necessary norms. Traders, wholesalers, retailers, and business entities involved in essential commodities are urged to cooperate with law enforcement agencies," said Joshi.
Point of View
The government's assurance regarding food security is crucial in maintaining public confidence. We must emphasize the importance of accurate information to prevent panic buying and hoarding, which can disrupt supply chains. The nation's food supply is currently stable, reflecting the government's proactive measures.
NationPress
20/05/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a shortage of essential commodities in India?
No, the government has assured that there is no shortage of essential commodities, with stocks significantly exceeding buffer norms.
What is the current rice stock in India?
India's current rice stock is at 356.42 lakh metric tonnes, well above the buffer norm of 135 LMT.
How much wheat stock is available?
The wheat stock is currently at 383.32 LMT, exceeding the buffer requirement of 276 LMT.
What should consumers do in light of this information?
Consumers are advised not to panic or rush to markets, as there is ample supply of essential commodities.
What actions will be taken against hoarding?
Individuals caught hoarding or stockpiling essential commodities will face prosecution under the Essential Commodities Act.
