Weather Woes Slash Wheat Procurement by 69%

The government's wheat procurement has taken a sharp hit this year, plunging by over 69% from previous levels due to adverse weather conditions. As of now, 15.30 lakh tonnes have been procured in the 2026-27 rabi marketing season, a substantial decline noted in official data from the Food Corporation of India (FCI).

This downturn is primarily attributed to unseasonal rainfall and hailstorms that have disrupted the arrival of the wheat crop in mandis. By April 1, procurement operations were underway, albeit with lower volumes: 29,925 tonne in Punjab, 11.23 lakh tonne in Haryana, and considerably smaller figures in other states.

The setback is significant when compared to last season's procurement of 50.08 lakh tonne. Despite facing such obstacles, the government has set an ambitious target of procuring 30.3 lakh tonne for the ongoing season. Wheat is being purchased at a minimum support price of Rs 2,585 per quintal.

(With inputs from agencies.)