Northeast Desk, 30th August: In a decisive move to address the rising prices of essential commodities in Meghalaya, Food, Civil Supplies, and Consumer Affairs Minister Comingone Ymbon announced a series of robust measures during the autumn session of the state assembly on August 29. The measures come in response to a call attention motion raised by VPP MLA Ardent M Basaiawmoit, highlighting the growing concern over price inflation in the state.
Minister Ymbon emphasized the government’s commitment to safeguarding consumer interests by ensuring that essential goods remain affordable. “The department remains committed to protecting the interests of consumers by ensuring the availability of essential commodities at reasonable prices,” Ymbon stated. He pointed out that regular reviews of retail prices are crucial in shaping effective market intervention strategies.
A significant aspect of the government’s approach is the crackdown on unfair trade practices. Ymbon reported a substantial increase in enforcement actions, with the number of raids under relevant legislation escalating from 79 in 2021-22 to 274 in 2023-24. “These efforts demonstrate the government’s commitment to curbing malpractices and ensuring that essential commodities are available to all citizens at fair prices,” he added.
The government is actively enforcing the Prevention of Black-marketing of Supplies of Essential Commodities Act, 1980, and the Essential Commodities Act, 1955. These laws empower the department to take strict action, including the detention of individuals involved in activities that disrupt the supply of essential goods.
Minister Ymbon also stressed the importance of collaboration in tackling the issue, stating, “Through continuous monitoring, strict enforcement, and collaboration with both state and national agencies, we are confident that the measures undertaken will help mitigate the impact of price rises on the people of the state.”
While acknowledging that various factors contribute to price fluctuations, Ymbon assured the assembly that his department is working closely with districts, sub-divisions, and all relevant stakeholders to protect vulnerable sections of society from the adverse effects of inflation. The government’s comprehensive approach aims to stabilize the prices of essential commodities and provide relief to the citizens of Meghalaya.
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