India’s rice stocks hit record highs, wheat inventories reach five-year peak

India’s government rice stocks rose 15% year-on-year and reached a record level at the beginning of June, while wheat inventories climbed to a five-year high, driven by strong procurement from farmers, according to official data.

Total state rice reserves, including unmilled paddy, stood at 68.43 million tonnes as of June 1, significantly exceeding the government’s July 1 target of 13.5 million tonnes. This marks one of the highest stock levels on record.

Wheat stocks reached 53.41 million tonnes, well above the government’s target of 27.6 million tonnes and the highest level since 2021. The elevated inventories are expected to help authorities manage domestic price stability through open market sales.

Analysts say the abundant rice stocks will support India, which accounts for around 40% of global rice exports, allowing it to maintain strong export flows despite weather risks linked to El Niño and potential rainfall disruptions.

India’s record grain production in the MY 2025/26—154.02 million tonnes of rice and 120.66 million tonnes of wheat—has resulted in ample supplies of both crops, strengthening the government’s ability to manage domestic markets and stabilize prices.

Tags: rice, wheat, India, stocks