The Roller Flour Millers’ Federation of India (RFMFI) has urged the government to establish a dedicated ‘Wheat Board’ to support research, policy development, and overall growth in the wheat sector. The demand was put forth at the International Wheat Milling Conclave, a two-day event currently taking place in Goa under the theme “The Future of Milling: Vision 2030 and Beyond.”
The Federation has also called for lifting export restrictions on wheat flour and bran to enhance market opportunities for the industry. Currently, exports of whole wheat flour are only permitted against imports, while wheat bran exports require a permit from the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), which has been suspended for several months.
Push for Wheat Board to Drive Research and Policy Initiatives
Navneet Chitlangia, President of RFMFI, emphasized the need for a Wheat Board, similar to the recently announced Makhana Board, to provide essential research support and strategic guidance for the industry.
“The establishment of a dedicated Wheat Board would ensure the long-term sustainability of the wheat ecosystem, benefiting both farmers and the processing industry.”
Wheat, a crucial Rabi crop sown in winter and harvested from March-end, plays a vital role in India’s food security. The Federation believes that a structured board will help streamline research and policy efforts, strengthening the entire wheat supply chain.
Industry Seeks Export Policy Reforms
Dharmendra Jain, Senior Vice President of RFMFI, highlighted the limitations posed by the current wheat export policy, which favors large corporations due to restrictions on exports against imports. He argued that a more open policy framework would significantly enhance industry capacity and global market penetration.
“The restrictive export policy limits opportunities, preventing small and medium millers from accessing international markets. Easing these restrictions would drive industry expansion and allow Indian millers to compete effectively on a global scale.”
Calls for Reduction in Import Duty on Wheat
Addressing concerns over market volatility, the Federation has urged the government to reduce the 40% import duty on wheat after the end of the procurement season in June. Dharmendra Jain explained that under the current duty structure, wheat imports are economically unviable, creating an imbalance in the supply-demand equation. “A post-procurement reassessment, based on actual harvest data, is essential to ensure market stability,” he added.
GST Relief for Milling and Storage Equipment
Another key demand raised at the conclave is the reduction of Goods and Services Tax (GST) on milling machinery. Rohit Khaitan, Vice President of RFMFI, pointed out that the 18% GST on milling machines has significantly increased project costs, as wheat flour and wheat bran are largely exempt from GST, making refund claims impossible. “We urge the government to revert to the earlier GST rate of 5% to facilitate industry modernization and expansion,” he said.
Additionally, the Federation has requested a reduction in customs duty and GST on equipment used for wheat storage, arguing that such measures would contribute to better infrastructure and efficiency in grain management.
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High-Level Participation at the Conclave
The International Wheat Milling Conclave has attracted over 500 delegates, including 50 international representatives from the United States, Germany, Turkey, Nepal, and Sri Lanka. Notable attendees include Praveen Khandelwal, Member of Parliament, who is serving as the chief guest, and key industry leaders such as Sachin Kumar Patnaik, Executive Director of FCI North Zone; Richard Siemer, President of Siemer Milling Co., USA; Melinda Farris, CEO of IAOM; Babulal Gupta, National President of Bhartiya Udyog Vyapar Mandal; and Kumud Duggar, President of the Nepal Flour Mills Association.
RFMFI’s Role in the Flour Milling Industry
Established in 1940, the Roller Flour Millers’ Federation of India is the apex body representing India’s flour milling sector. With over 1,800 member mills across the country, the Federation plays a crucial role in shaping policy, modernizing milling practices, and ensuring the steady supply of essential wheat-based products such as atta, maida, suji, bran, dalia, and sattu. Headquartered in Delhi, RFMFI collaborates with key government agencies, including the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food Corporation of India (FCI), Ministry of Agriculture, and Ministry of Commerce & Industry, advocating for the interests of flour millers and promoting sustainable industry growth.
The discussions at the conclave underscore the pressing need for policy changes that would enable the flour milling industry to expand its reach, enhance competitiveness, and contribute more effectively to India’s food security and economic development.