Centre backs stock limits on rice and paddy in five southern States, with action under the Essential Commodities Act

6 November 2026

The Centre has agreed to five State Governments imposing stock limits on rice and paddy. These are Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Telangana. The limits stay in force up to 31st January next year. The aim is to keep rice available at reasonable prices in the southern States and to prevent hoarding. Traders, wholesalers, big chain retailers and processors in all States and Union Territories must also declare their stocks every Friday on the Food Stock Portal. An entity found unregistered, or breaching the set limits, faces action under the Essential Commodities Act. The Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution Ministry issued the direction