India’s grain reserves have reached unprecedented levels, with rice stocks in government warehouses reaching a record high in early June and wheat inventories reaching their highest level in four years, according to official figures. Rice reserves, including unmilled paddy, increased 18% year on year to 59.5 million metric tons as of June 1.
This volume substantially exceeds the government’s July 1 objective of 13.5 million tons. Wheat reserves also increased dramatically, reaching 36.9 million tons, much exceeding the benchmark aim of 27.6 million tons.
The record rice production is likely to boost India’s potential to increase exports. In March 2025, India restored all rice export limits, reversing curbs imposed in 2022. The country, which accounts for almost 40% of worldwide rice exports, may now increase its position in the international market. A New Delhi-based dealer expressed concerns that rice inventories should be reduced before the next procurement season in October.
Meanwhile, increased procurement from farmers aided wheat inventory recovery. The Food Corporation of India has purchased 30 million tons of wheat so far this year, the most since 2020. Recent increases in wheat reserves lower the risk of imports, despite previous concerns about poor harvests in recent years.
