New Delhi:
The rising prices of gram and toor i.e. arhar dal amid the festive season has increased the concern of the common people. The price of chana dal in the market is said to reach Rs 130 per kg, while toor dal is being sold at Rs 180 per kg. Seeing the rise in prices, the central government has come into action. The government has made it clear that it is keeping a close watch on the prices of pulses and strict action will be taken against businessmen involved in hoarding or betting.
Important meeting with states today
Sources in the Ministry of Food and Consumer Affairs told NDTV that the Consumer Affairs Secretary has called an important meeting of officials of the Food and Civil Supplies Department of the states at 3 pm today. The secretary also confirmed this. It was told that in the meeting, the prices of major pulses including gram and toor dal and the status of stock available in the market will be reviewed. The Central Government wants all the states to ensure declaration of stock from their pulse traders. That means businessmen will have to tell how much stock of pulses they have. The aim of the government is to find out whether despite sufficient stock in the market, prices are being increased by creating artificial shortage.
Government’s eye on hoarding and betting
According to ministry sources, the central government is seriously monitoring the prices of pulses. States will be asked to ensure that no trader is involved in hoarding or speculating in essential pulses. If found so, then strict action will be taken against the concerned businessmen.
Average prices of pulses as per government data
According to the ministry, in recent times the all India average retail price of toor dal has increased to around Rs 135 per kg. At the same time, the average price of chana dal is around Rs 95 per kg. Here, there is a difference between the market price of chana dal up to Rs 130 and toor dal up to Rs 180 and the government’s all India average price. Prices may vary in different markets and locations.
Government claims- Adequate stock of pulses in the country
The central government says that the production of pulses in the country has been good and sufficient stock is also available. In such a situation, there should not be a situation of shortage of pulses in the market. The government will work with the states to monitor stocks and control prices. After the festive season, the demand for pulses may increase in the coming wedding season. In such a situation, the government is trying to provide relief to the common people by banning hoarding and speculation by businessmen.
Source: ndtv.in
