The New Nation - Internet Edition

BRINGING down prices of essential commodities to tolerable level of the common consumers is one of the major expectations of the people. Volatility of the market had been a matter of great concern for about four years. People have suffered much under the unusual market trends. It is a healthy sign that prices of major essential items have started coming down in both the wholesale and retail markets. The price of fuel oil in the international market has come down to almost one-fourth of the highest level. Prices of rice and edible oil have also come down internationally. Good Aman harvest prospects have also influenced the rice price situation positively.

Prudent decisions in a number of areas and their implementation are essential to retain the current downward trend of prices. Availability of fertilisers and diesel at reduced rates and uninterrupted power supply for irrigation must be ensured for a bumper Boro crop. Though insignificant in proportion to the fall of prices internationally, the government has reduced diesel price and is reportedly going to cut prices of fertilisers soon. Proper distribution of these inputs should be ensured for a positive impact on price situation.

The supply chain of essential items should be kept steady. The government's reported plan to strengthen the Price Monitoring Cell to control prices is a right move. Experts want the involvement of more ministries to make PMC effective.

Involvement of the business community is of vital importance. The government must take them into confidence. While taking measures to prevent the creation of artificial crisis in the market the business community should be fully involved in price control efforts.