The Central Government has amended an order previously issued by the Department of Food and Public Distribution, Government of India on stock limits on wheat for traders, wholesalers, retailers, big chain retailers, and processors. The amendment order was issued on 14th September, 2023.
The original order was published in the Gazette of India, Extraordinary, dated the 12th June, 2023.
The amendment pertains to Paragraph 2(i) of the said Order, specifically addressing the stock limits for wheat, a critical staple in India. The revised provisions, now in effect, are as follows:
For a period up to 31st March 2024, wheat will have the following stock limits for all States and Union Territories:
- Traders/Wholesaler: 2000 metric tonnes (MT)
- Retailer: 10 MT for each retail outlet.
- Big Chain Retailer: 10 MT for each outlet and 2000 MT at all their depots.
- Processors: 75% of the annual installed capacity or a quantity equivalent to the monthly installed capacity multiplied by the remaining months of 2023-24, whichever is less.
This amendment aims to regulate and maintain appropriate stock levels of wheat across the country, ensuring that there is a balance between demand and supply. By setting these stock limits, the government seeks to prevent hoarding and speculative practices that may lead to fluctuations in wheat prices and adversely impact consumers.
It is essential for all stakeholders, including traders, retailers, big chain retailers, and processors, to adhere to these revised stock limits. This measure is part of the government’s ongoing efforts to safeguard the availability and affordability of essential commodities for the benefit of the general public.
The amended provisions will remain in effect until March 31, 2024, and compliance with these regulations is crucial to maintain stability and accessibility of wheat in the market.
