Highlights of measures announced to control prices

Email Story Write to the editor Print Story New Delhi, Jan 13: The government today announced a slew of measures to control prices of essential commodities. Following are the highlights:-- State-run National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation (NAFED) and apex federation of consumer cooperatives, NCCF, to sell onions at Rs.35 per kg-- Stringent action against hoarders and black marketers. Cartelisation by large traders to be dealt with strictly dealt-- Import and export of all essential commodities to be reviewed on a regular basis-- State units to intensify purchases of essential commodities, particularly edible oils and pulses, for distribution through their retail network-- Existing schemes for subsidised distribution of edible oils and pulses to be continued-- Exports of edible oils and pulses, as well as non-basmati rice to remain banned-- Committee of Secretaries under the Cabinet Secretary to review the prices situation with individual states-- An inter-ministerial Group set up under the Chief Economic Adviser, Ministry of Finance to review the overall inflation situation-- State Governments to be urged to consider waiving mandi tax, octroi and other local levies to bring down prices further-- A scheme to support the state governments in the setting up of farmers' mandis and mobile bazaars and to improve the functioning of civil supplies corporations and cooperatives-- Awareness campaigns to make people aware of cheaper alternatives to pulses like yellow peas with a view to influence consumption pattern in favour of such alternatives-- Involve Residents' Welfare Associations and self-help groups in distribution of essential commodities to address local s! hortages and ensure that supplies reach the households with least intermediation cost-- Investments to be encouraged in supply chains including provisions for cold storages-- Storage capacities to be increased to stock last years bumper Kharif crop. (IANS)