The central government on Thursday banned the export of non-basmati white rice. This decision has been taken with the aim of increasing domestic supplies during the upcoming festivals. This decision of the government is also considered important in view of keeping the retail prices under control.

According to the statement by the Food Ministry, there will be no change in the export policy of non-basmati rice and basmati rice. Let us tell you that the share of both varieties of Chawan in the total export is very high. Non-basmati white rice accounts for about 25 per cent of the total rice exported from the country.

According to the information, the total export of non-basmati white rice from India was close to $ 4.2 million in the financial year 2022-23. In the previous year, exports were said to be $26.2 million. India exports non-basmati rice mainly to Thailand, Italy, Spain, Sri Lanka and the United States.

The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) issued a notification regarding the matter. Accordingly, the export policy of non-basmati white rice has been changed from free to restricted. The domestic prices of rice are on the rise, the statement said. Retail prices have increased by 11.5 percent in a year and by three percent in the last month.

The ban on export of non-basmati white rice will result in lower prices for consumers in the country. No change in the export policy of non-basmati rice (usna rice) and basmati rice was said to ensure that farmers continue to get the benefit of remunerative prices in the international market. However, this rice consignment will be allowed to be exported subject to certain conditions.