Export price hike, overseas supplies reigned in prices of onions, pulses
Several measures like increase in minimum export price of onions and import of onions and pulses have led to a decline in the price trend of these items and other commodities in the domestic market, the government has said. On Friday, the Cabinet Secretary held a meeting with secretaries of Consumer Affairs, Agriculture, Commerce and other departments to review the prices of essential commodities. All the departments have been directed to keep a "close watch” on the prices. “It was observed that the recent measures taken by the Centre like increase in minimum export price of onions, and extending stock limits and import of 2,000 tonnes of onions have reigned in the prices of onions, which are showing a declining trend,” a government statement said. In case of pulses, the government has extended the stock limits up to September next year and the period of duty-free import for a year. To streamline the prices and meet the domestic demand, the government had decided to import 5,000 tonnes of pulses. “While 3,250 MT of imported tur dal has already arrived, the remaining stock of 1,750 MT is expected to arrive soon and plan to import of additional 2,000 tonnes of tur dal is also on cards to augment supplies and moderate prices,” the statement said. As part of long-term measures to boost production, the government has also increased the Minimum Support Price (MSP) of tur and urad to Rs.4625 per quintal and MSP of moong to Rs.4850 per quintal. The Food Corporation of India has already been asked to procure pulses at revised rates. To ensure proportionate distribution and availability of imported pulses, the Kendriya Bhandar will supply tur dal at its 100 locations in Delhi, while Safal will supply the pulse through its 300 outlets. “Other states have also been allotted imported pulses as per their requirement. Instructions were also issued for enforcing stock limits and taking effective action against hoarding and black-marketing of essential commodities, especially pulses,” the statement said.
October 10, 2015 | 2:48pm IST.
to success.