Wheat prices are unlikely to be affected by the predicted heatwave in the coming months, according to Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor Shaktikanta Das. He did, however, issue a warning on possible effects on vegetable prices.
This remark is in line with forecasts issued by the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), which show above-average temperatures and a chance of heatwaves from April through June.
Governor Das stated, "The IMD has forecasted high temperatures, expected to be above normal during April, May, and June," at a press conference following the monetary policy announcement. We must so keep an eye on how it affects food crops."
Governor Das emphasized that the heatwave is unlikely to have a major impact on wheat prices because wheat harvesting is largely finished nationwide. But given the current temperatures, he emphasized the importance of keeping an eye on vegetable costs.
Our data indicates that harvesting is almost over for wheat crops. With a few notable exceptions, it is completely completed throughout central India. Consequently, wheat supply shouldn't be significantly damaged, in contrast to the extreme heatwaves that occurred two years ago, Das said.
"So wheat is not a major concern," he continued. But we also need to monitor vegetable prices and any other possible effects that may arise from the heatwave."
According to the IMD's projection, many areas of the nation may have maximum temperatures that are higher than usual from April to June, with 10–20 days of heatwaves predicted in some areas.
Mansukh Mandaviya, the Union Minister of Health, presided over a meeting earlier this week to evaluate public health preparedness for handling heat-related ailments. States were instructed to make sure that critical medications, IV fluids, ice packs, oral rehydration solution (ORS), drinking water, and information, education, and communication (IEC) programs are available for the public at health facilities.
States were also told to disseminate summertime guidelines that included dos and don'ts for vulnerable populations as well as the general public.
