According to official figures as on May 24, procurement of wheat by government agencies has touched 34.1 million tonnes, which is slightly more than last year’s levels. Punjab has procured 12.65 million tonnes of wheat against market arrivals of 12.7 million tonnes, which is 99.5% of total stocks offered by farmers for sale. In Madhya Pradesh, government agencies have procured 11.33 million tonnes, which is nearly 99% of the total arrivals of 11.40 million tonnes. The exit of the private sector from grain markets was highlighted by a high-level committee headed by former food minister Shanta Kumar. Crowding out refers to a situation where increased government involvement in a sector affects other players, including the private sector.

Source: Hindustan Times May 29, 2020 17:52 UTC