The editorial “Destroying farm exports” (May 15) has pointed out how government policy on farm export hurts producers as well as consumers. Delay destroys. Whether it is foodgrain or other commodities like sugar, onion, etc, unnecessary and untimely bans are imposed and even the decision to lift the ban or allow exports is taken by a group of ministers (GoM). This results in market distortions. Moreover, given this scenario, farmers suffer as a result of increased production; the consumer is not benefitted, either.
Now, Food Corporation of India godowns are overflowing with grains. The government should be able to export the excess produce before it is wasted. There is a need to implement the right policy, which could also cater to foodgrain demand from countries in West Asia and Africa; this will also fetch better prices.
Jacob Sahayam, Thiruvananthapuram
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