OREANDA-NEWS. September 24, 2015. The exemption given to stocks pulses and edible oil in warehouses registered with WDRA has also been withdrawn. It has come to the notice of the Government that huge stocks of pulses have been stored in several godowns by private entities. In view of the tight supply situation of pulses, it was considered necessary to withdraw the exemption to stocks held in warehouses registered with WDRA also. By this decision of the Government, stocks stored in all godowns, including those registered with WDRA would be on a level-playing field and subjected to the same stock limits imposed by State Governments. This would increase the availability of pulses in the market and is likely to cool down prices further.

Union Cabinet yesterday decided to enable States to impose stock limits on pulses, edible oils and oil seeds for a period of one year from 1.10.2015 to 30.9.2016. This decision enables States to regulate trade of essential commodities and take effective operations under the Essential Commodities Act, 1955 by imposing stock limits/licensing requirements to curb unscrupulous trading, hoarding and profiteering. This would ensure adequate availability of commodities in domestic market and keep the prices under control.