Tamil Nadu Government Imposes Stock Limits on Essential Goods to Curb Inflation

Chennai, November 14 (Daily Kiran) : The Tamil Nadu government has implemented stock limits on essential items such as pulses, rice, and sugar to prevent hoarding, stabilize prices, and ensure adequate supplies at fair rates. This decision was announced in an official statement and is in accordance with Section 3 of the Essential Commodities Act, 1955, with prior approval from the central government.

These orders were published in the state gazette notifications number 486 and 487 on Friday. Additionally, a related notification from the central government concerning sugar was reissued in gazette notification number 490 on the same day.

The measures aim to control the prices of essential food items and ensure a steady supply of rice and other goods through public distribution systems. The stock limits for pulses and urad dal will be in effect for three months starting from November 13, while the limits for rice and paddy will remain until January 31, 2027.

No individual or business is permitted to hold stock beyond the specified limits. Traders and other entities with excess stock of pulses, urad dal, rice, or paddy are required to adjust their inventory to meet the limits by November 16.

Under a central government order dated November 6, traders, wholesalers, retailers, large retail chains, mill owners, and processors must report their rice and paddy stock on the ‘Food Stock Portal.’ This information must be updated every Friday.

Furthermore, these entities are also instructed to provide details of their stock of pulses, urad dal, and sugar on the authorized portal and keep it updated accordingly.

Regarding sugar, the government has mandated that traders cannot hold stock for more than 15 days from the date of receipt. To monitor compliance and prevent hoarding and black marketing, a committee has been established, comprising district supply officers, circle supply officers, and officials from the civil supply criminal investigation department.

The government clarified that these orders will not impact farmers, who are free to store or sell their agricultural produce. Authorities have urged traders, factory owners, farmers, and the public to cooperate with these measures. The government believes that collective efforts will help ensure the availability of essential goods at reasonable prices. The public can register complaints or provide information via toll-free helpline numbers 1967 and 1800 425 5901, or by contacting the relevant district supply and consumer protection officer for further assistance.