The below-normal monsoon has significantly impacted rice yields, with industry officials predicting the steepest production drop in two decades. This could lead to higher rice prices, affecting both domestic consumers and international markets, as India is a major global rice exporter. The government has also expressed concerns about potential hoarding and black market activities, which could exacerbate supply shortages and price volatility. Southern states, including Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Telangana, have been authorised to impose stock limits on rice and paddy to curb these risks.