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India's rice procurement has narrowed its deficit to 11% from 20% due to a 5.44% rise in purchases during November. As of November 17, total procurement stood at 148.93 lakh tonnes, with Punjab and Haryana being the largest contributors. While some states like Uttar Pradesh reported higher purchases, others, including Tamil Nadu and Telangana, saw declines. The government has raised its procurement target to 492.11 lakh tonnes for 2024-25, ensuring sufficient supplies. With ongoing efforts, bumper production in Punjab is expected to exceed targets, providing a robust outlook for the Central Pool stock.

Key Highlights

* November rice procurement rose 5.44%, narrowing the deficit.

* Punjab remains the largest contributor with 102.97 lakh tonnes.

* Uttar Pradesh witnessed a 32% rise in rice purchases.

* Bihar's procurement target revised upward to 30 lakh tonnes.

* Telangana and Tamil Nadu recorded significant declines in procurement.

India's rice procurement saw a significant recovery in November, reducing the deficit to 11% compared to last year. Total procurement as of November 17 reached 148.93 lakh tonnes, aided by a 5.44% rise in purchases during the first half of November. Punjab, a key contributor, reported procurement of 102.97 lakh tonnes, though still 11% lower than last year. Uttar Pradesh emerged as a bright spot with a 32% rise in purchases to 2.54 lakh tonnes, driven by increased arrivals in both eastern and western regions.

The government's proactive measures, including revising targets and addressing state-level challenges, have stabilized procurement. Punjab's bumper production and assurances from Union Food Minister Pralhad Joshi further supported the upward trend. Meanwhile, Haryana's lower procurement, influenced by a shift from non-Basmati to Basmati rice, contributed to mixed regional performance.

The Centre raised the national procurement target to 492.11 lakh tonnes for 2024-25, reflecting its commitment to ensuring food security. Bihar's target was revised from 23 lakh tonnes to 30 lakh tonnes to accommodate higher production. However, states like Tamil Nadu and Telangana recorded procurement drops of 10.7% and 45%, respectively, with challenges in logistics and production dynamics.

Finally

India's rice procurement shows positive recovery, with November purchases boosting overall targets. Continued focus on production and state-level support will further strengthen the Central Pool stock.

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