Centre amends Essential Commodities Act

The Union Cabinet has approved a historic amendment to Essential Commodities Act. This is a visionary step towards transformation of agriculture and raising farmers’ income.

Briefing the media after the Cabinet meeting in New Delhi yesterday, Information and Broadcasting Minister Prakash Javadekar said, with the amendment to Essential Commodities Act, commodities like cereals, pulses, oilseeds, edible



oils, onion and potatoes have been removed from list of essential commodities.

He said the decision will ensure better price for farmers' produce and also remove fears of private investors of excessive regulatory interference.

The amendment  will help drive up investment in cold storages and modernization of the food supply chain.