New Delhi

The Centre on Monday said India has sufficient buffer stocks of food grains, with availability well above prescribed norms, ensuring food security and preparedness for emergencies.

Speaking at a press briefing, C Shikha, Joint Secretary in the Department of Food and Public Distribution under the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, said the country currently holds around 602 lakh metric tonnes (LMT) of food grains.

She noted that this includes approximately 222 LMT of wheat and about 380 LMT of rice—nearly three times the mandated buffer norms. The stock, she said, is adequate to meet requirements under the Public Distribution System (PDS) as well as any emergency needs.

Shikha also highlighted that steady imports from countries such as Indonesia, Malaysia, Russia, Ukraine, Argentina and Brazil have supported supply stability. Additionally, improved mustard production has strengthened domestic availability, particularly in the edible oil segment. She assured that the government is closely monitoring the situation and is ready to intervene if necessary.

On maritime operations, Mukesh Mangal, Additional Secretary in the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, said all Indian seafarers in the West Asia region are safe and shipping activity remains stable.

He confirmed that no incidents involving Indian-flagged vessels have been reported in the past 24 hours. Two LPG carriers recently transited the Strait of Hormuz safely, reflecting continuity in maritime movement despite regional tensions.

Mangal said around 16 to 18 Indian-flagged vessels are currently in the western Persian Gulf region, carrying over 400 Indian seafarers. Authorities are maintaining close coordination with the Ministry of External Affairs, Indian missions abroad and maritime stakeholders to ensure safety and uninterrupted operations.

READ MORE: Delhi Advocate Ekta Pareek fights for clean environment, animal rights

He added that more than 960 Indian seafarers have been repatriated so far, while port operations across the country remain normal. Meanwhile, nearly 5.98 lakh passengers have returned to India amid the evolving security situation in West Asia.