Union Minister of Consumer Affairs, Food, and Public Distribution, Pralhad Joshi, has detailed the government’s efforts to stabilize tomato prices in the Delhi-NCR region amidst recent fluctuations. Speaking to the press, Joshi revealed that the government has procured tomatoes from Delhi’s Azadpur Mandi, as well as wholesale markets in Kolar (Karnataka) and Sanganer (Rajasthan).
“We have procured tomatoes from these markets and are selling them at ₹60 per kilogram at 18 locations across Delhi-NCR, including Noida and Gurugram,” Joshi announced. He emphasized that the government has not utilized the Price Stabilisation Fund for this initiative. Instead, the tomatoes have been priced based on the procurement cost plus transportation expenses.
The tomatoes were acquired at ₹45 per kilogram, and after adding the transportation costs, they are being sold at ₹60 per kilogram to consumers. Joshi assured that this pricing strategy is a temporary measure and that the cost of tomatoes is expected to return to normal levels within the next 7 to 10 days.
The government’s intervention comes as part of broader efforts to manage food price volatility and ensure that essential commodities remain affordable for consumers. Joshi’s statement highlights the ongoing challenges in stabilizing food prices and the steps being taken to address them effectively.
The Minister’s remarks provide clarity on the pricing and procurement strategy, addressing concerns among consumers about the recent surge in tomato prices and the steps being taken to mitigate the impact on their daily expenses.
