Centre Takes Bold Step to Relax Tomato Prices, NCCF & NAFED to Sell at Rs. 70/kg in these States from Today

In a significant move to provide relief to consumers amid the rising prices of essential commodities, the Department of Consumer Affairs has directed the National Consumer Cooperative Federation (NCCF) and the National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of India (NAFED) to further slash the price of tomatoes to Rs. 70 per kilogram from July 20, 2023. This decision comes in light of the declining trend in tomato prices and is expected to alleviate the burden on consumers.

Initially, the tomatoes procured by NCCF and NAFED were retailed at Rs. 90 per kilogram. Following the intervention of the Department of Consumer Affairs, the price was reduced to Rs. 80 per kilogram starting from July 16, 2023. Now, with the latest directive, consumers can avail themselves of tomatoes at an even more affordable rate of Rs. 70 per kilogram.

In order to address the issue of soaring tomato prices in major consumption centers, the Department of Consumer Affairs directed NCCF and NAFED to procure tomatoes from mandis (wholesale markets) in Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and Maharashtra. The procurement initiative was aimed at simultaneous disposal in areas where retail prices had experienced a significant increase in the past month.

Also Read: NCCF to Sell Freshly Procured Tomatoes at Discounted Prices in Delhi Retail Markets from Today

The retail sale of the procured tomatoes commenced on July 14, 2023, in the Delhi-NCR region. So far, the two agencies have procured a total of 391 metric tons of tomatoes, which are being continuously made available to retail consumers in major consumption centers, including Delhi-NCR, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and Bihar.

The move to reduce the retail price of tomatoes is expected to bring much-needed respite to households, especially during a time when inflationary pressures have been affecting everyday expenses. By taking proactive steps to control tomato prices, the government aims to ensure that essential vegetables remain accessible and affordable for the public.

Consumers in the regions served by NCCF and NAFED can now benefit from this price reduction and procure tomatoes at the new rate of Rs. 70 per kilogram. The authorities encourage consumers to make the most of this opportunity and support the government's efforts to stabilize prices and promote consumer welfare.

Also Read: Know How Maharashtra Farmers are Playing in Crores by Selling Tomatoes Monthly