The production of wheat is likely to touch a record 98 million tonnes (MT) in the ongoing 2016-17 crop year ending June. This is on back of higher yields and taking into account the feedback received by agriculture ministry from the state governments and experts. The ministry had pegged a record wheat output of 96.64 MT for the current crop year (July-June) in its second estimate, compared to the actual output of 92.29 MT last year.
The government is aiming to procure 30 MT of wheat at the support price in view of the expected record output on the back of good monsoon. At present, the new crop is being harvested in full swing. The government agencies have already procured more than 10 MT of the grain from states like Punjab and Haryana.
Further, the government has restricted imports by reverting to a customs duty of 10% on the grain in order to ensure farmers get better price for their produce.