New Delhi, 06 April (H.S.):

The central government assured Monday that essential commodity prices show no abnormal fluctuations despite West Asia tensions, with continuous monitoring of wholesale and retail markets nationwide.

Public Distribution Department Joint Secretary C Shikha, at an inter-ministerial briefing, emphasized close food security oversight. Buffer stocks exceed norms threefold: ~222 lakh metric tons (LMT) wheat and ~380 LMT rice—totaling ~602 LMT. States directed for strict action against hoarding, black marketing.

National Food Security Act (NFSA) ensures grains for vulnerable populations; Open Market Sales Scheme intervenes for price stability. Imports from key partners (Indonesia, Malaysia, Russia, Ukraine, Argentina, Brazil) continue steadily. Improved mustard production bolsters domestic supply; government vigilant for interventions if needed.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar