India currently maintains a robust buffer stock of foodgrains, ensuring both public distribution needs and emergency preparedness, according to C Shikha, Joint Secretary in the Department of Food and Public Distribution.
Addressing a press briefing on Monday, Shikha said the country holds around 222 lakh metric tonnes (LMT) of wheat and approximately 380 LMT of rice, taking the total food stock to about 602 LMT—nearly three times the prescribed buffer norms.
“We have adequate buffer stock of both wheat and rice. This is sufficient to meet the Public Distribution System (PDS) requirements as well as any emergency needs,” she said.
She added that steady imports from key partners, including Indonesia, Malaysia, Russia, Ukraine, Argentina and Brazil, have supported overall supply stability. Improved domestic mustard production has also strengthened availability, particularly in the edible oil segment. “Overall supply remains stable, and the government will continue to monitor the situation closely and intervene if required,” she noted.
Meanwhile, maritime operations remain stable despite heightened tensions in West Asia, said Mukesh Mangal, Additional Secretary in the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways.
He confirmed that all Indian seafarers in the region are safe, with no incidents involving Indian-flagged vessels reported in the past 24 hours. Notably, two LPG carriers—Green Sanghvi and Green Asha—have successfully transited the Strait of Hormuz in recent days.
Mangal said that 16 Indian-flagged vessels are currently operating in the Western Persian Gulf region, carrying 433 Indian seafarers. The government is maintaining close coordination with the Ministry of External Affairs, Indian missions abroad, and maritime stakeholders to ensure safety and operational continuity.
Earlier estimates had indicated 18 vessels with around 485 seafarers in the region. Mangal also noted that over 964 seafarers have been repatriated so far, while port operations across India continue without disruption.
In a related development, a senior official said that nearly 5.98 lakh passengers have returned to India amid the evolving security situation in West Asia and the Gulf region.
