India has approved the export of an additional 25 Lakh Metric Tonnes (LMT) of wheat in a bid to ensure remunerative returns for farmers while maintaining stability in domestic markets. Earlier, the Government 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 the month of 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 exports.
The Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution said that the decision is based on a comprehensive review of current production, stock availability, and price trends as the wheat acreage during the Rabi 2026 season increased to approximately 334.17 lakh hectares, compared to 328.04 lakh hectares last year. The Ministry described the rise as reflective of a "strong farmer confidence in wheat cultivation, supported by assured Minimum Support Price (MSP) and robust procurement mechanisms," and indicative of the "likelihood of another strong harvest." The Government expects its decision to enhance market liquidity, facilitate efficient stock management, and prevent distress sales during the peak arrival season, along with stabilisation of domestic prices and higher farmer incomes.
The government described permission of additional exports as appropriate in view of the comfortable production outlook and higher stock availability. As per the Second Advance Estimates released by the Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare on 10 March 2026, wheat production for FY 2025-26 is estimated at 1,202 LMT.
