Overview
- Traders and wholesalers are now capped at 2,000 tonnes, retailers at 8 tonnes per outlet, and big-chain retailers at 8 tonnes per outlet with a network-wide ceiling equal to 8 times the number of outlets.
- Processors may hold stocks up to 60% of their monthly installed capacity multiplied by the remaining months of FY2025-26, reduced from 70%.
- All entities must update wheat holdings every Friday on the government stock portal, with a 15-day window to cut any excess to the new limits.
- Violations or failure to register will attract punitive action under Sections 6 and 7 of the Essential Commodities Act, with central and state officials monitoring enforcement.
- The ministry cites 2024-25 production of 1,175.07 LMT and central procurement of 300.35 LMT as evidence of sufficient availability for PDS and other interventions.