India Raises Wheat Procurement Target Amid Lower Production Estimates

It notes higher production in most states except Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Punjab compared to the previous year. Navneet Chitlangia, president of the Roller Flour Millers Federation of India, stated that actual output could be between 115 and 116 million tonnes.

of April 23, 2026, wheat procurement reached 164.32 lakh tonnes, compared to 183.49 lakh tonnes in the same period last year. Purchases increased in Punjab to 75.73 lakh tonnes from 59.20 lakh tonnes, in Haryana to 65.16 lakh tonnes from 56.64 lakh tonnes, and in Bihar to 17,281 tonnes from 9,991 tonnes.

However, procurement fell in Madhya Pradesh to 13.19 lakh tonnes from 54.09 lakh tonnes, in Uttar Pradesh to 4.08 lakh tonnes from 5.51 lakh tonnes, and in Rajasthan to 5.7 lakh tonnes from 7.84 lakh tonnes. A flour miller noted that traders and stockists have been absent from the market this year, unlike normal years, contributing to lower prices.

Previous years saw stock limits on stockists, traders, and millers, leading to losses for many who bought aggressively. This caution has persisted despite reports of crop damage. " — A flour miller, April 24, 2026 (The Hindu BusinessLine) Chopra mentioned that the open market sales policy will be released before the new sale season starts in July.

He encouraged millers to be self-reliant in their wheat requirements. The differences in production estimates stem from varying assessment methods and field conditions, with harvesting ongoing in key regions.

The lower production estimate could influence domestic wheat supply and food security in India, which relies heavily on the crop for both consumption and exports. Officials have not commented on the discrepancy between the report and the government's figures.

Wheat is a major crop in India, with production assessments typically conducted around this time of year. The government's measures aim to bolster farm-gate prices amid trailing procurement levels. Experts view the target hike as potentially symbolic, given that actual purchases are below last year's figures.

The report highlights that despite initial promise, weather events reduced potential output significantly.