The food security is ensured in India through a carefully designed food security system by the government.

This system has two components:

(i) Buffer Stock      (ii) Public Distribution System.

(i)Buffer Stock: Buffer stock is the stock of foodgrains, namely wheat and rice procured by the govt. through Food Corporation of India (FCI). The FCI purchases wheat and rice from the farmers in states where there is surplus production.

The purchased foodgrains are stored in granaries. This is done to distribute foodgrains in the deficit areas and among the poorer strata of society at a price lower than the market price also known as Issue price. This also helps in resolving the problem of shortage of food during adverse weather conditions or during the period of calamity.

(ii)Public Distribution System: The food procured by the FCI is distributed through govt. regulated ration shops among the poorer section of the society. This is called the public distribution system.