Govt weighs wheat export cap, more rice in food scheme

A limit on wheat exports and the use of more rice in its place in the national food programme are among measures the government is considering to rein in prices of wheat and flour. Local prices of wheat and atta have risen sharply as India has stepped up exports of the cereal following a nearly 40% rally in global rates in the wake of the Russia-Ukraine conflict. This year’s wheat production is pegged at 95 million tonnes (mt) by traders, against government estimates of 105 mt, likely tightening local supplies and causing prices to rise. Wheat is priced at ₹2,550 per quintal (100 kg) at Kandla port, having risen sharply recently as exporters are trying to speed up shipments, anticipating
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