Wheat Procurement for 2025-26 Surpasses Last Year, Reaches 28.66 Million Tonne

New Delhi, May 16—According to official data released on Thursday, India’s wheat procurement for the 2025-26 marketing year has reached 28.66 million tonne, surpassing last year's figure and marking the highest procurement since 2022-23.

This surge in procurement is driven by expectations of a record wheat output of 115.3 million tonnes for the current season. In comparison, wheat procurement stood at 26.59 million tonnes during the 2024-25 marketing year.

Procurement Nears Target Amid Strong Harvest​

Although the wheat marketing year runs from April to March, most procurement occurs in the first quarter. The central government procures wheat at the minimum support price (MSP) through the Food Corporation of India (FCI) and other state agencies to maintain buffer stocks and ensure price support to farmers.

The current procurement level is slightly below the government’s target of 31.2 million tonnes for 2025-26.

State-wise Procurement Highlights​

FCI data shows that all five central wheat-producing states have recorded higher procurement levels this year compared to the previous season:

• Punjab: 11.57 million tonnes
• Madhya Pradesh: 7.40 million tonnes
• Haryana: 7.01 million tonne
• Rajasthan: 1.64 million tonne
• Uttar Pradesh: Figures not specified but reportedly higher year-on-year

The procurement drive has benefited approximately 2.27 million farmers, with MSP payments totaling ₹62,346.23 crore.

Harvesting Progress Across States​

Wheat harvesting has concluded in Madhya Pradesh, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Gujarat, while Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, and Bihar are in the final stages of completion.

With procurement already ahead of last year and approaching the target, the government remains optimistic about meeting its food security goals, backed by a record wheat production forecast.