India’s rice procurement deficit has decreased to 11% from 20% in November, thanks to a 5.44% increase in purchases. The total procurement reached 148.93 lakh tonnes, with Punjab and Haryana being the largest contributors.
Uttar Pradesh saw a 32% rise in rice purchases, while Tamil Nadu and Telangana experienced declines. The government has raised its procurement target to 492.11 lakh tonnes for 2024-25 to ensure sufficient supplies.
Punjab’s bumper production is expected to exceed targets, providing a robust outlook for the Central Pool stock. The government’s proactive measures have stabilized procurement, including revising targets and addressing state-level challenges.
Punjab’s bumper production and assurances from the Union Food Minister further supported the upward trend. The Centre raised the national procurement target to 492.11 lakh tonnes for 2024-25, reflecting its commitment to ensuring food security.
