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

In response to the surge in tomato prices nationwide, the National Cooperative Consumers' Federation of India (NCCF), a government agency, is set to sell freshly procured tomatoes in the retail markets of Delhi starting today. The move aims to alleviate the burden on consumers by offering tomatoes at a price of Rs 90 per kilogram, according to the consumer affairs department.

The sharp increase in tomato prices has been observed throughout the country, affecting various regions and cities, with prices reaching as high as Rs 150-160 per kilogram. To address this issue, the Central government has directed agricultural marketing agencies, namely NAFED and NCCF, to immediately procure tomatoes from mandis (wholesale markets) in key growing states like Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and Maharashtra.

The newly procured tomatoes will be dispatched for simultaneous distribution to major consumption centers where retail prices have experienced the highest surge in the past month. This strategic approach aims to ensure that consumers in Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) can access tomatoes at discounted prices through retail outlets by the end of this week.

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Tomatoes are cultivated across various states in India, albeit in varying quantities. The southern and western regions account for the majority of tomato production, contributing 56-58% of the country's total output. These surplus states often supply tomatoes to other markets based on production seasons, with peak harvesting typically occurring from December to February.

Factors such as planting and harvesting seasons, as well as regional variations, play a significant role in the seasonality of tomato prices. Temporary disruptions in the supply chain and crop damage due to adverse weather conditions can also lead to sudden price spikes.

The government attributes the recent price rise to the monsoon season, which has presented additional challenges related to distribution and increased transit losses. Furthermore, tomatoes have a relatively short shelf life, exacerbating the need for timely and efficient distribution.

At present, tomato supplies in Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, and other states primarily come from Maharashtra, specifically Satara, Narayangaon, and Nashik. These supplies are expected to last until the end of this month. Reasonable quantities from Madanapalle in Andhra Pradesh, as well as Himachal Pradesh and Kolar in Karnataka, contribute to the arrivals in Delhi NCR. Additionally, new crop arrivals from Nashik district are anticipated in the near future.

Data from the Department of Consumer Affairs indicates a significant increase in tomato prices at retail markets across various cities in June. For instance, prices in Delhi rose from Rs 20 per kilogram in early June to Rs 110 last week, while Chennai, Ahmedabad, and Kolkata experienced prices per kilogram of Rs 117, Rs 100, and Rs 148, respectively.

The recent surge in tomato prices, along with other vegetables, contributed to an increase in retail inflation in June, which reached 4.81%. To mitigate the impact on consumers, the government's efforts to procure and distribute tomatoes at discounted rates will provide relief and contribute to more stable market conditions.

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