Centre to purchase pulses at market rates to boost stocks

To dip into price stabilisation fund

- SANDIP DAS

The government is likely to use the price stabilisation fund (PSF) for purchasing pulses from farmers at market prices. The need for such purchases has come as procurement at minimum support prices (MSP) has become difficult given the elevated market rates, while stocks are depleting and could fall below buffer levels in many cases.

Sources said the government agencies engaged in procurement operations—Nafed and National Cooperative Consumers Federation (NCCF)—would use the PSF to buy pulses varieties, especially chana.

"As chana prices are ruling above minimum support price of ₹5,650/quintal, purchase under PSF is being considered," an official said.