(a) the amount of subsidy provided on the import of edible oils with a
view to provide relief to the poor sections of the society from the spiralling
prices of edible oils during each of the last three years and the current year;
(b) whether the Government proposes to import edible oils during the ensuing
year to control the prices; and
(c) if so, the details thereof alongwith the subsidy earmarked for the purpose?
MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR CONSUMER AFFAIRS, FOOD & PUBLIC DISTRIBUTION
(PROF. K.V. THOMAS)
(a) Under the Scheme for distribution of subsidized imported edible oils through
States/Union Territories to ration card holders, a subsidy of Rs. 15/- per kg of
edible oil is provided to importing Central Public Sector Undertakings (CPSUs).
During 2008-09 and 2009-10, Rs. 424.25 crores and Rs. 198.13 crores
respectively have been released to CPSUs. During current year, while
Rs. 11.22 crores have already been released, their claim of about Rs. 509 crores
are under scrutiny.
(b) & (c) To augment availability of edible oils in the country so that
their prices may be moderated, extension of the Scheme for Distribution of
subsidized imported edible oils through States/Union Territories beyond
31.3.2011 is presently under consideration. Imports of edible oils by private
trade are being facilitated through liberal import duty structure.