Foodgrain reserves full, says Union Minister Chouhan; Govt warns traders against hoarding
Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan Friday said that the country's foodgrain reserves are full.
Reviewing the food stock situation as well as preparedness for ensuing kharif sowing season, Chouhan directed officials to be prepared to assist farmers in bordering states with sowing operations to ensure they do not face difficulties due to the ongoing conflict between India and Pakistan.
Chouhan said he would speak with chief ministers of border states/UTs like J&K and Punjab regarding requirements in case villages need evacuation.
'Our foodgrain reserves are full… The rice and wheat reserves are full, there is also a buffer stock of pulses, there is no shortage of anything,' Chouhan said.
The food ministry said the current rice stock stands at 356.42 lakh tonnes against a buffer norm of 135 lakh tonnes. Similarly, wheat stock is 383.32 lakh tonnes against a buffer norm of 276 lakh tonnes.
Meanwhile, the government warned traders and wholesalers against hoarding of essential food items. Minister of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution Pralhad Joshi on X appealed to people not to believe in propaganda messages regarding food stock.
'Don't believe in propaganda messages regarding food stocks in the country. We have ample food stocks, far exceeding required norms. Don't pay heed to such messages. Traders, wholesalers, retailers or business entities which engage in trading of essential commodities are directed to cooperate with law
enforcement agencies. Any person indulging in hoarding or stockpiling shall be prosecuted under relevant sections of the Essential Commodities Act,' Joshi wrote on X.
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