Retail prices of pulses lag behind wholesale market drop; government warns against profiteering
On Tuesday, the government called for retailers to adjust their profit margins on tur, urad and chana dals following a 4 per cent decline in wholesale prices over the past month as reported by PTI. Despite the fall in wholesale markets, retail prices have not seen a corresponding decrease, prompting the government to urge retailers to provide relief to consumers.
The Department of Consumer Affairs, led by Secretary Nidhi Khare, held a meeting with the Retailers Association of India (RAI) to discuss the current price trends in pulses. The meeting was attended by representatives from major retail chains including Reliance Retail, D-Mart, Tata Stores, Spencer’s, RSPG and V-Mart.
During the meeting, it was noted that while wholesale prices in major mandis have dropped by up to 4 per cent, retail prices have remained relatively stable, indicating higher profit margins for retailers. The government emphasised the need for retailers to adjust their margins to ensure affordable prices for consumers.
Khare highlighted the government’s efforts to monitor stock positions of all stockholding entities, including large retail chains, to ensure compliance with prescribed limits. She warned that any breach of stock limits or instances of unscrupulous speculation and profiteering would result in stern actions from the government.
In addition, Khare mentioned the robust sowing operations of pulses in the ongoing kharif season and the government’s initiatives to enhance production. The Department of Agriculture is actively working with state agriculture departments to support farmers, including the distribution of high-quality seeds through NAFED and NCCF.
The retail industry participants assured the government of their commitment to maintaining nominal retail margins to ensure dal prices remain affordable for consumers. The government continues to closely monitor the situation to ensure compliance and prevent any exploitation of the market conditions.
