NEW DELHI: The Union Cabinet on Wednesday decided to dispose of 15 lakh tonne of chana procured under its schemes to states at a discounted rate, incurring a cost of Rs 1,200 crore. It also raised the procurement ceiling for tur, urad and masur from current 25% to 40% under the price stabilisation scheme.
While the first measure will help states utilise the subsidised chana for various welfare schemes and free up space for stocking pulses which will be procured during the rabi crop season, the second decision has been taken considering the rise in prices of the three other pulses. There are indications of the area under tur cultivation being reduced this year and that has also caused prices to rise.
The Centre will offer 15 lakh tonne chana to states at a discount of Rs 8 per kg over the issue price of sourcing state on first-come-first-serve basis. “This will be one-time dispensation for 12 months or till complete disposal of 15 lakh tonnes stock of chana, whichever is earlier.” it said.
While the first measure will help states utilise the subsidised chana for various welfare schemes and free up space for stocking pulses which will be procured during the rabi crop season, the second decision has been taken considering the rise in prices of the three other pulses. There are indications of the area under tur cultivation being reduced this year and that has also caused prices to rise.
The Centre will offer 15 lakh tonne chana to states at a discount of Rs 8 per kg over the issue price of sourcing state on first-come-first-serve basis. “This will be one-time dispensation for 12 months or till complete disposal of 15 lakh tonnes stock of chana, whichever is earlier.” it said.
News Courtesy: timesofindia.indiatimes.com
