Tomatoes at Rs 65 Per Kg: Government Flags Mobile Vans in Delhi NCR

The National Cooperative Consumers' Federation of India Limited (NCCF) has initiated a market intervention by launching mobile vans that sell tomatoes at a subsidized rate of Rs 65 per kilogram in the Delhi NCR region, as a response to the rising retail prices of tomatoes. The initiative was flagged off by Nidhi Khare, Secretary, Department of Consumer Affairs under the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution.

To combat price volatility, NCCF is directly procuring tomatoes from mandis and selling them at affordable prices, protecting consumers from surging costs and minimizing the influence of market intermediaries. The organization is also supplying onions at Rs 35 per kg from the government buffer to retail markets in key cities, further demonstrating its commitment to stabilizing prices and supporting consumers.

Recent weeks have seen an unexpected surge in tomato prices, despite adequate supply arriving in mandis. Weather challenges, including high humidity and extended monsoon rains in key producing states like Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and Maharashtra, have impacted the quality of tomatoes, contributing to the price rise. Additionally, the potential involvement of intermediaries may be exacerbating the situation during the festive season.

The intervention highlights NCCF's role in promoting fair trade, stabilizing prices, and protecting consumer interests. By engaging directly with farmers, NCCF ensures that consumers benefit from reasonable prices, mitigating the economic impact of fluctuating market conditions.

The flag-off event was attended by key officials, including Anupam Mishra, Joint Secretary & MD NCCF, I.S. Negi, Senior Economic Advisor, and Dr. Kamkhenthang Guite, Economic Advisor. The mobile vans will be deployed at various locations across Delhi NCR, providing consumers with easy access to tomatoes at affordable rates.

Locations of NCCF Mobile Vans in Delhi NCR include South Extension, CGO, Krishi Bhawan Gate No-1, NCUI Complex, Dwarka Sector 1, Rohini Sector 2, Parliament Street, RK Puram Sector 10, indigo, Kaka Nagar, Yamuna Vihar- C Block, Model Town, Preet Vihar, INA Market, Mehrauli, Kali Baadi, Najafgarh, Moti Nagar, Karol Bagh, and several other key areas, ensuring widespread coverage.

This initiative is aimed at relieving the financial burden on consumers while promoting fair pricing and transparency in the market.