(a) whether the allocation of refined bleached and deoderant palmolein for distribution
through PDS has been stopped;
(b) if so, the reasons therefor;
(c) whether the Government of Gujarat has sought permission for import of 18000 tonnes of
crude palmolein through STC with 45 per cent duty under the TRQ; and
(d) if so, the action taken by the Government in this regard?
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF CONSUMER AFFAIRS, FOOD AND PUBLIC DISTRIBUTION ( SHRI SUBHASH MAHARIA )
(a): Yes, Sir.
(b): In view of the easy availability of edible oils at comparable prices in domestic market,
it has been decided for the time being not to import edible oils (RBD Palmolein) on the Central
Government account for the PDS. The States/UTs have been advised to avail of the Tariff Rate
Quota as notified by Department of Commerce, for the year 2002-03, for the purpose of importing
specified edible oil for the PDS through the designated canalizing agencies, if felt, necessary
by them.
(c): Yes, Sir.
(d): The request of the State Government of Gujarat for reduction in import duty was
forwarded to the concerned Ministries i.e. Ministry of Finance and Ministry of Commerce &
Industry.