FAO/GIEWS - Foodcrops & Shortages 02/02 - INDIA (1 February)
Planting of the 2001/02 wheat crop was completed in November and recent timely rains have ensured favourable production prospects. Assuming weather conditions stay within normal range, a good harvest should be expected. Harvest is due to start from April and output is tentatively forecast to increase from last year’s 68.5 million tonnes to some 70 million tonnes.
Government wheat stocks were reported at 35.8 million tonnes at the beginning of November. High rice stocks are also reported and for both crops efforts are being made to encourage exports. However, much will depend upon the supply and demand situation on the world commodity markets.