(a) whether the red wheat imported from Australia and Canada for distribution through Fair Price Shops has reportedly found no takers;
(b) if so, the reasons therefor;
(c) the cost of import of such wheat alongwith loss incurred thereon;
(d) whether responsibilities have been fixed in this regard; and
(e) if so, the details and the action taken against the guilty persons?
MINISTER OF AGRICULTURE AND MINISTER OF CONSUMER AFFAIRS, FOOD & PUBLIC DISTRIBUTION (SHRI SHARAD PAWAR)
(a), (b), (c), (d) & (e): A statement is laid on the Table of the House.
STATEMENT REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) TO (e) OF THE STARRED QUESTION NO. 460 DUE FOR ANSWER ON 07.05.2007 IN THE LOK SABHA.
(a): No, Sir. Though there is a preference for white wheat, red wheat has been accepted for distribution by Fair Price Shops.
(b): Does not arise.
(c): 55 lakh MTs of wheat has been imported, as per tender specifications at a weighted average price of US $ 205.31 per MT. No loss has been incurred in this regard.
(d)&(e): Do not arise.