Govt okays another 25 lakh tonnes of wheat exports
New Delhi, April 20
The Government of India has approved the export of an additional 25 lakh metric tonnes of wheat, reinforcing its commitment to ensuring remunerative returns for farmers while maintaining stability in domestic markets, according to an official statement issued on Monday.
The decision follows a comprehensive review of current production, stock availability, and price trends, the statement issued by the Department of Food and Public Distribution said.
According to the second advance estimates released by the Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare on March 10, 2026, wheat production for 2025-26 is estimated at 1,202 LMT. In view of the comfortable production outlook and higher stock availability, permitting additional exports was considered appropriate, the statement explained.
Prior to this, the Department of Food and Public Distribution had approved the export of 5 LMT of wheat products in January 2026. This was followed by further approval of additional 5 LMT wheat products and 25 LMT wheat in February 2026. With the latest round of approvals, a total of 50 LMT of wheat and 10 LMT of wheat products have now been permitted for export.
Wheat acreage during the Rabi 2026 season has increased to approximately 334.17 lakh hectares, compared to 328.04 lakh hectares last year. This rise reflects strong farmer confidence in wheat cultivation, supported by assured Minimum Support Price (MSP) and robust procurement mechanisms, and indicates the likelihood of another strong harvest, the statement explained.
The latest decision to allow export of an additional 25 LMT of wheat is expected to enhance market liquidity, facilitate efficient stock management, and prevent distress sales during the peak arrival season. It will also help stabilise domestic prices and strengthen farmers' incomes, while ensuring that the country's food security remains fully safeguarded, the statement said.
The Government remains committed to adopting calibrated and timely measures to balance the interests of farmers and consumers, while promoting sustainable growth in the agriculture sector, the statement added.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Good move, but I hope the government is keeping a very close watch on domestic prices. We've seen how quickly atta prices can shoot up. The balance between farmer income and consumer affordability is crucial.
Finally, a policy that makes sense. Using our surplus to earn foreign exchange instead of letting it rot in godowns. The increase in wheat acreage shows farmers are responding to good policies. 👍
As someone who follows global food markets, this is a strategically important decision. It positions India as a reliable supplier. The calibrated approach mentioned in the article seems prudent.
My only concern is the timing. We are approving this in April, but what about the monsoon prediction? If the 2026 monsoon is weak, will we have enough buffer stock? Planning should be more long-term.
This is excellent news for Punjab and Haryana farmers. The government must ensure that the benefits of exports actually reach the small and marginal farmers, not just the big players. Transparency in the process is key.
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