UPSC Articles
States asked to invoke Essential Commodities Act, 1955
Part of: GS Prelims and GS-II – Polity & Governance
In News:
- States are asked to invoke Essential Commodities (EC) Act, 1955 by the Ministry of Home Affairs to maintaining smooth supply of essential items at fair prices in the country.
- The measures include fixing of stock limits, capping of prices, enhancing production, etc.
Key takeaways:
- States can now notify orders under the EC Act, 1955 without prior agreement from the Central Government up to June 30, 2020.
- Offences under EC Act are criminal offences and may result in imprisonment of 7 years or fine or both.
- Offenders can also be booked under the Prevention of Black-marketing and Maintenance of Supplies of Essential Commodities Act, 1980.
Important value additions:
Essential Commodities (EC) Act, 1955
- It is an act of Parliament of India.
- It was established to prevent hoarding of the essential commodities and to ensure their timely delivery so that the normal life does not get affected.
- This includes foodstuff, drugs, fuel (petroleum products) etc.
