Govt can export up to 3 million tonnes of wheat to Iran

Facing the hurdles of quality guidelines, India is stuck up with its proposal to export wheat to Iran. As per Food Minister K V Thomas, the country can export up to three million tonnes of wheat from the government stock to sanction-hit Iran. This is however possible only if West Asian nation is satisfied with the quality of the grain.

The food minister further enlightened that a delegation from Iran was here for a week and have taken samples to their country after field visit to finalize the quality issues of the grain. Upon receiving the clearance on quality norms especially Karnal bunt disease, the country will be in a position to export 2-3 million tonnes of wheat.

On back of record production for two consecutive years, in September 2011 the country lifted ban on wheat exports. However, India has been able to ship only one million of wheat out of the country due to the lower global prices. Further to ease storage crisis, Indian government which is battling to clear surplus stock will be relieved if the Iran government agrees to import wheat.