The Economic Survey has come down heavily on the government for holding on to grain stocks, which, it says, has resulted in ‘artificial shortages’, in turn, causing a spiral in prices. The survey called for investment in stock management and improving the marketing system of agricultural produce for increasing farmers’ income.

“This policy of stocking grain well above the buffer norms comes under criticism on the grounds of hoarding and creating artificial shortages in the market, thereby jacking up the prices of essential commodities. Urgent attention needs to be accorded to efficient food stock management, timely offloading of stocks, and a stable and predictable trade policy,” said the economic survey (2012-13).