New Delhi. In the week ending 22.4.2010, prices of sugar have either decreased or remained steady at all the reporting centers where prices are monitored by the Department of Consumer Affairs. As per the data released by the Department, wheat prices decreased at Delhi and Rajkot and rice prices decreased at Bangalore and remained steady at most of the places across the country.

Edible oils, potato and onion prices also decreased at some centers and remained steady at most of the reporting centers.

As regards prices of pulses, gram and masoor dal prices have decreased at some centers and remained steady at most of the reporting centers. Retail prices of tur, urad and moong dal witnessed upward trend at some centers.

The PSUs have contracted import of 5.84 lakh tonnes of pulses. 5.79 lakh tonnes have arrived and 5.61 lakh tonnes have been disposed from the stocks with these agencies upto 21.04.2010.

PSUs have supplied 2.50 lakh tonnes of pulses to States for distribution under Public Distribution System (PDS) upto 21.4.2010.

Recently the following measures have been taken to contain the prices:
(i) The regime of importing pulses at zero import duty is further extended up to 31.3.2011.
(ii) The ban on export of pulses, except kabuli chana will continue up to 31.3.2011.
(iii) The scheme of 15% subsidy to cover the losses on import of pulses by NAFED, PEC, MMTC and STC would continue upto 30.9.2010.
(iv) The Scheme for import of pulses by NAFED, NCCF, PEC, STC and MMTC and distribution of these pulses by the State Governments through PDS at a subsidy of Rs.10 per kg will continue up to 31.3.2011.