In a move aimed at ensuring the availability of Tur Dal to consumers at affordable prices, the central government has decided to release Tur Dal from the national buffer stocks until the arrival of imported stocks in the domestic market. The Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution has issued a statement announcing this decision and has directed the National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation (NAFED) and the National Cooperative Consumers Federation (NCCF) to conduct online auctions to dispose of Tur Dal.
The government’s decision comes as an effort to address consumers’ concerns and stabilize the Tur Dal market. The Ministry stated, “The Government has decided to release Tur from the national buffer in a calibrated and targeted manner until imported stocks arrive in the Indian market.” It further added that NAFED and NCCF had been directed to conduct online auctions among eligible millers to increase the availability of Tur stocks for milling into Tur Dal. The quantities and frequency of the auctions will be adjusted based on the impact on the availability of Tur Dal at affordable prices for consumers.
It is important to note that on June 2, 2023, the central government imposed stock limits on Tur and Urad under the Essential Commodities Act of 1955. This measure was taken to prevent hoarding and speculative practices and to ensure affordability for consumers. The stock limits, applicable until October 31, 2023, set specific quantities for wholesalers, big chain retailers, and millers. Entities must also declare their stock positions on the Department’s portal.
The Department of Consumer Affairs and state governments are continuously monitoring the implementation of the stock limit order and the disclosure of stock positions. Data from various entities, including Central Warehousing Corporation (CWC) and State Warehousing Corporations (SWCs), are being crosschecked against the quantities declared on the stock disclosure portal. State governments actively monitor prices and verify stock positions to take strict action against those violating the stock limits.