Mandatory Weekly Stock Disclosure

On Wednesday, the Central Government directed States and Union Territories to enforce weekly stock disclosures for all entities holding pulses. They must inspect these stock declarations particularly in warehouses at major ports and significant pulse trading centers routinely. Strict penalties are in place for entities reporting false stock information on the newly implemented disclosure portal.

 Importance of Monitoring and Vigilance

Nidhi Khare, Secretary of the Department of Consumer Affairs, stressed the importance of vigilance over pulse stock levels and price trends. She briefed the Principal Secretaries and Secretaries of State Consumer Affairs, Food, and Civil Supplies Departments on these needs. The aim is to prevent hoarding and market manipulation, ensuring fairness and stability in pulse prices.

 Enhancements to Stock Disclosure Practices

During a meeting with pulse importers and industry representatives, discussions focused on the challenges of pulse importation and stock disclosure. Khare emphasized the necessity for reliable weekly stock reporting by all importers and industry players, particularly of imported yellow peas. To facilitate this, the stock disclosure portal has been revamped to include more entities and commodities.

 Regulation of Imported Yellow Peas

The government has allowed the import of Yellow Peas from December 8, 2023, until June 30, 2024, to increase pulse availability. This initiative includes making the stock disclosure portal more inclusive by adding big chain retailers and yellow peas, effective April 15, 2024. Khare underscored the critical need for continuous market release of these stocks to prevent supply disruptions.