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Centre Tightens Wheat Stock Caps, Orders Weekly Declarations Through March 2026

The government says the curbs aim to deter hoarding to keep prices in check before festivals despite ample supply.

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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.