US hopes to convince India to 'reconsider' wheat exports ban decision
Washington (US), May 17: US Ambassador to UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield on Tuesday stated that they hope to convince India to reconsider its decision to ban exports of wheat due to possible shortages in future amid excessive heat in the Indian subcontinent.
The Centre Last week, the Centre amended the country's export policy of wheat by putting its export under the "prohibited" category. The order rolled out by the Ministry of Commerce noted that the government has prohibited the wheat exports with "immediate effect". Speaking at a press briefing in New York on Global Food Security, Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield stated that they have seen the report on India's decision and that they are ensuring India reconsiders its decision on the wheat export ban.
"We're encouraging countries not to restrict exports because we think any restrictions on exports will exacerbate the food shortages. But you've - again, India will be one of the countries participating in our meeting at the Security Council, and we hope that they can, as they hear the concerns being raised by other countries, they would reconsider that position," she said.
On Saturday, India stated unequivocally that limiting wheat exports will help to control food prices and strengthen the food security of the country and countries facing a deficit.
India also stated that it is still a reliable supplier, as all contracts are being completed.
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Speaking at a press conference, Secretary Department of Food and Consumer Affairs, and Manoj Ahuja, Secretary Agriculture, the Commerce Secretary stated that all exports orders where the letter of credit has been issued would be fulfilled.
He further mentioned that directing the wheat exports through government channels would not only ensure fulfilling the genuine needs of our neighbours and food-deficit countries but also control inflationary expectations.
Talking about the wheat availability, Commerce secretary Subrahmanyam added, "Apart from the food security of India, the Government is committed to ensuring food security of neighbours and vulnerable countries."
He stated that the control order serves three main purposes: "It maintains the food security for the country, it helps others who are in distress, and maintains India's reliability as a supplier."
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-PTC News
