Union Minister of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution & New and Renewable Energy, Shri Pralhad Joshi, has launched the sale of tomatoes at a subsidized rate of Rs 60 per kg. This initiative, spearheaded by the National Cooperative Consumers' Federation of India Limited (NCCF), aims to stabilize the rising tomato prices in the retail market.

During the flag-off ceremony, Shri Joshi addressed the media, emphasizing the government's commitment to controlling the surge in tomato prices, particularly in major cities like Delhi. “From today onwards, subsidized tomatoes will be sold for Rs 60 per kg,” stated Shri Joshi.

Under the Narendra Modi government, the Centre has established a Price Stabilization Fund (PSF) to manage rising food prices and protect consumer interests. However, in this instance, the PSF was not utilized as tomatoes were procured directly from wholesale mandis, reducing intermediary costs and ensuring affordability for consumers. Shri Joshi added, “This initiative will ease tomato prices, stabilize the market, and provide tomatoes at a subsidized rate to consumers.”

NCCF’s market intervention includes procuring tomatoes from wholesale mandis and selling them at reasonable retail prices. This move aims to maintain reasonable profit margins at the retail level, prevent windfall gains for intermediaries, and protect consumer interests. By stabilizing prices and promoting fair trade practices, NCCF demonstrates its commitment to creating a stable market ecosystem.

Starting 29th July, tomatoes will be available at Rs 60 per kg at the following locations: Rajiv Chowk Metro, Patel Chowk Metro, Nehru Place, Krishi Bhawan, CGO Complex, Lodhi Colony, Hauz Khas Head Office, Parliament Street, INA Market, Mandi House, Kailash Colony, I.T.O, South Extension, Moti Nagar, Dwarka, Noida (Sector 14 and 76), Rohini, and Gurugram. Additional retail locations may be introduced in the coming days for consumer convenience.