The government has allowed export of three lakh tonnes of non-basmati rice and two lakh tonnes of wheat to Bangladesh.
There has been a ban on export of wheat and non-basmati rice since October 2007 and April 2008, respectively, to ensure availability of the grain in the domestic market and check the price rise. But the ban has relaxed from time-to-time on diplomatic grounds.
“The ban on export of non-basmati rice shall not be applicable on export of three lakh tonnes of parboiled non-basmati rice to Bangladesh from the Central Pool at prevalent economic cost through Food Corporation of India (FCI),” a notification by Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) said.
In another notification,
DGFT allowed relaxation on export of two million tonnes of wheat to Bangladesh.
The foodgrain would be exported from the central pool.
The economic cost of wheat and non-basmati rice is Rs. 15.44 a kg and about Rs. 20 a kg, which includes the purchase price, taxes, warehouse and handling charges.
In May also, exports of one lakh tonne of non-basmati rice and four lakh tonne of wheat were allowed to the neighbouring country.
Source : thehindu.com