The Open Market Sale Scheme (OMSS) for wheat and rice is a scheme introduced by the government of India to sell surplus stocks of food grains in the open market. Here is how it works: 1. Surplus stock: The government procures food grains (wheat and rice) from farmers through minimum support price (MSP) operations, resulting in surplus stocks. 2. Identification of surplus: The government identifies the surplus stock available with the Food Corporation of India (FCI) and state agencies. 3. Fixing the sale price: The government fixes the sale price for the surplus stock, considering factors like prevailing market prices, transportation charges, storage costs, etc. 4. Open market sale: The surplus stock is sold in the open market through a transparent and competitive bidding process. Interested bulk buyers and state governments can participate in the bidding. 5. Payment and delivery: Successful bidders need to make full payment for the purchased stock within a specified time and arrange for transportation of the grains. 6. Monitoring and reporting: The Food Department and FCI monitor the implementation of the OMSS and report on the progress of the scheme to the central government. The OMSS helps reduce the burden of excess food grain stocks and ensures that the grains are made available in the market, preventing price distortions and promoting food security.