Wheat evacuation from Punjab has gained momentum this rabi marketing season, with 78.96 lakh tonnes lifted from wholesale mandis as of May 6, 2026, surpassing last year's figure of 75.63 lakh tonnes. Despite a slight decrease in total arrivals to 122 lakh tonnes from 125 lakh tonnes last year, the Indian government's enhanced rail movement has facilitated smoother procurement operations and alleviated congestion at purchase centers. To further optimize grain dispatch, the government has allocated 100 additional wheat special rail rakes for May, which can carry about 3 lakh tonnes of wheat, primarily to Uttar Pradesh and southern states. Punjab plays a pivotal role in national wheat logistics, receiving 201 out of 354 planned wheat special trains this month. Additionally, direct delivery operations have been expanded, with 3.5 lakh tonnes transported in April and plans for 6.6 lakh tonnes in May, aiming for a total of 18 lakh tonnes this season. The Food Corporation of India (FCI) and the food ministry are closely monitoring these operations, as Punjab typically accounts for nearly 60% of India's wheat movement during the procurement season.