Buffer stock, created by the Indian government, is the stock of:

Correct option is C

The correct answer is (c) Food Grains

Explanation:

Buffer stock is a reserve of food grains maintained by the Government of India to ensure food security, price stability, and availability during times of shortage, drought, or emergencies.

The Food Corporation of India (FCI), under the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food, and Public Distribution, is responsible for procuring, storing, and distributing this stock across the country.

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Objectives of Buffer Stock:

• Food Security – Ensures availability of essential food grains like wheat and rice during natural calamities or emergencies.
• Price Stability – Prevents excessive price fluctuations in the market by controlling supply.
• Support to Farmers – Helps in Minimum Support Price (MSP) procurement, ensuring fair income for farmers.
• Public Distribution System (PDS) – Supplies grains under National Food Security Act (NFSA), Mid-Day Meal Scheme, and Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY).

Minimum Buffer Stock Norms (as per FCI guidelines):

• Wheat and Rice are the major grains stored.
• The stock varies for different times of the year (e.g., Rabi & Kharif seasons).