Wheat procurement by the Indian government has surged sharply this year. As of now, 198.6 lakh tonnes of wheat have been procured, marking a 46% increase compared to 135.8 lakh tonnes purchased during the same period last year. This rise is primarily due to record production and the announcement of bonuses on MSP (Minimum Support Price) in some states. The government has set a target of 312.7 lakh tonnes for wheat procurement this year. Compared to previous years, this performance reflects a strong recovery: In 2022-23, against a target of 440 lakh tonnes, only 187.9 lakh tonnes were procured. In 2023-24, out of a 341.5 lakh tonne target, 262 lakh tonnes were procured. In 2024-25, with a target of 373 lakh tonnes, procurement has already reached 266.1 lakh tonnes. In contrast, the record wheat procurement was seen in 2021-22 at 433.4 lakh tonnes. Since then, procurement had declined, leading to reduced sales under OMSS (Open Market Sale Scheme). In 2023-24, OMSS sales exceeded 100 lakh tonnes, whereas in the most recent season, they dropped to just 30 lakh tonnes. As of April 1, 2025, the central wheat stock stood at 117.9 lakh tonnes, up from 75 lakh tonnes the previous year � a rise of 42.9 lakh tonnes. According to officials, the government is not considering any changes to export restrictions or allocations under public distribution schemes for now. However, sales under OMSS may begin 30�45 days after government procurement ends. Market Update Wheat demand remained steady last week, leading to a ₹10 per quintal increase in weekly prices. Arrivals have increased in the Delhi region, keeping prices from rising further. If arrivals don't improve significantly between May 10�20, a supply-demand gap may persist throughout the year. Regional Insights: Gorakhpur division saw arrivals five times higher than last year, though a larger share is white wheat. Delhi arrivals are 16% lower compared to last year. Uttar Pradesh is expected to limit procurement to within 15 lakh tonnes. Madhya Pradesh is close to last year�s figure, just 4 lakh tonnes behind, and is likely to procure 12 lakh tonnes more than last year. Milling and Stock Position: Across the country, wheat prices at mills weakened by ₹20 to ₹40 per quintal last week. Demand for flour, maida (refined flour), and bran remains weak. Millers and large companies have stocked up sufficiently, while in Uttar Pradesh, stockists hold more wheat than millers.