The country’s food grain stock has increased by 148,484 metric tonnes during the first six months of the current government. According to food ministry officials, the country's current food stock stands at 23,59,154 metric tonnes, up from 22,10,670 metric tonnes on February 10. This increase is attributed to various government initiatives aimed at enhancing food security.
The government has been working on increasing the country's food grain storage capacity. Previously at around 24 lakh metric tonnes, the capacity has now been raised to 27 lakh metric tonnes, with plans to reach 34 lakh metric tonnes within the next five years. Additionally, the safe food stock limit has been revised from 13.5 lakh metric tonnes to 16 lakh metric tonnes.
Currently, the government food grain stockpiles are at a satisfactory level, comprising 20,36,102 metric tonnes of rice, 2,32,183 metric tonnes of wheat, and 34,070 metric tonnes of paddy. The total stock includes 68,723 metric tonnes of wheat as floating stock. This upward trend is more pronounced compared to the previous government's tenure.
Stakeholders emphasize that adequate food stocks are crucial for maintaining normal market supply, stabilizing prices, and addressing any emergency situations. The ongoing Boro procurement drive has seen significant progress, with 16,83,195 metric tonnes of food grains procured by September 9, 2026. Import activities are also underway to address potential shortages and strengthen stock levels.
From July 1 to September 9, 2026, a total of 8,27,700 tonnes of food grains were imported, with 65,860 metric tonnes by the government and 7,61,840 tonnes by the private sector. Food ministry officials state that the government is implementing an integrated plan covering production, procurement, importation, and stockpiling to ensure food security. Stock levels are regularly monitored to ensure an adequate food supply.
Mohammad Kamrul Islam Chowdhury, Joint Secretary (procurement wing) of the ministry, noted that the domestic food grain procurement drive is being successfully implemented. Government warehouses currently hold adequate and secure stocks of rice and wheat, serving as a strong foundation for national food security. Director General of the Food Planning and Monitoring Unit (FPMU) Mahbubur Rahman added that the government is continuously adjusting food grain stocks and storage capacity to meet increasing national demand.
Despite rising international wheat prices, the government has contingency plans, such as distributing rice under the 'Food-Friendly Programme'. Mahbubur Rahman assured that there is no possibility of a food crisis, given the current situation. The adequate rainfall this season also brings hope for achieving the desired targets for the Aman harvest, with the government expecting to surpass the procurement target.
