News Desk. The central government has taken a big step to keep an eye on sugar prices and availability in the market. The government has reduced the maximum storage limit for sugar dealers and stockists. Under the new system, now no dealer will be able to store more than 2000 quintals of sugar. This rule will be effective from September 15.
Stock accounts will have to be given every Friday
In the new system, it will be necessary for dealers to provide information about sugar stock regularly. All concerned dealers have to register themselves on the portal and update the details of available stock every Friday. This will help the government to continuously monitor the actual availability of sugar in the market.
Action on finding excess stock
During investigation, if any dealer is found to have more sugar than the prescribed limit or an attempt is made to create shortage in the market by deliberately withholding goods, then action can be taken. In cases like hoarding and artificial shortage, there will be a provision for action under the Essential Commodities Act, 1955.
Big buyers also under surveillance
Government surveillance will not be limited to dealers only. Sweet shops, soft drink companies, food processing units and other large institutional buyers will also be under its ambit. Those whose average monthly consumption is 10 metric tons or more will not be able to keep stock for more than 15 days for production or use.
Sugar mills will also have to keep information
The sale of sugar to big consumers will also be monitored. Sugar mills will have to verify the quantity supplied to such buyers. This step of the government has been taken with the aim of preventing unnecessary stock in the market and maintaining normal availability of sugar.