The Indian government has revised the wheat stock limits for dealers, wholesalers, and large chain stores in all states and union territories in an effort to ensure food security and prevent hoarding.
The removal of licensing requirements, stock limits, and movement restrictions on specific foodstuffs (Amendment) Order, 2023, which was issued on June 12, 2023, and will be in effect until March 31, 2024, includes the decision, which was made in reaction to rising wheat prices.
The following are the updated wheat stock limits:
- Big Chain Retailers: 10 metric tons (MT) for each location and 2000 MT at all of their depots.
- Traders/Wholesalers: 2000 MT
The current stock restrictions do not change for any other categories. All entities involved in wheat stocking must register on the Wheat Stock Limit Portal (https://evegoils.nic.in/wsp/login) and update their stock holdings each Friday in order to be in compliance. Punitive action may be taken in accordance with Sections 6 and 7 of the Essential Commodities Act of 1955 if registration is not made or the stock limitations are broken.
Within 30 days of receiving the notification, entities with stock levels over the established limitations must lower them. In order to avoid creating an artificial shortage of wheat in the nation, officials from the Central and State Governments will constantly monitor how these limits are used.
The government’s commitment to preserving food security and avoiding market hiccups in the field of critical commodities is reflected in this measure.