To ensure transparency and prevent market manipulation in the pulses sector, the Centre has issued directives to all States and Union Territories (UTs) to enforce weekly stock disclosure by all entities involved in stockholding. This directive comes in the wake of concerns regarding hoarding and price fluctuations in the pulses market.
Meeting with State Authorities & Industry Representatives
The Secretary of the Department of Consumer Affairs, Nidhi Khare, convened a meeting with Principal Secretaries and Secretaries of State Consumer Affairs, Food & Civil Supplies Departments. This meeting served as a follow-up to the directive issued on 5th April, 2024, urging States/UTs to ensure compliance with pulses stock disclosure by stockholding entities.
During the meeting, emphasis was placed on the necessity for heightened vigilance over stock positions and price trends of pulses. The objective is to curb hoarding practices and prevent market manipulation.
Additionally, Khare held discussions with pulses importers associations and other industry representatives to address concerns related to imports and stock disclosure. Importers and industry stakeholders were urged to diligently report their pulse stocks, including imported Yellow Peas, weekly.
Revamping Stock Disclosure Portal
To facilitate comprehensive stock reporting, the Department of Consumer Affairs has revamped the stock disclosure portal, which will now include Yellow Peas. Furthermore, Big Chain Retailers will also be required to disclose their stocks through this portal, effective from 15th April, 2024.
Focus on Imported Yellow Peas
In addition to the five major pulses - Tur, Urad, Chana, Masur, and Moong - States/UTs have been instructed to monitor the stock position of imported Yellow Peas. The import of Yellow Peas, permitted since 8th December, 2023, aims to bolster the overall availability of pulses in the market until 30th June, 2024.
Khare emphasized the importance of ensuring the continuous release of imported Yellow Peas into the market. Similarly, monitoring of stocks for Tur, Urad, and Masur with importers is essential to ensure a steady and uninterrupted supply to the market.
