PNS|Hyderabad
Non Resident Indians (NRI)s in the United States and Canada rushed to Indian grocery stores to stock up on their supplies of rice after the Indian government banned the export of non-basmati white rice. Since the ban is on non Basmati rice Telugu and Tamilians who consume Sona Masoori rice started hoarding it. A NRI S Adarsh from Southern part of United states said, “There was a huge rush and I have seen some buy 10-12bags.
By the time I went there were hardly any, I purchased 2bags which should last for 2-3months. In general, in my place the prices are on higher end, but I did pay higher price today compared to my regular purchase”.
Another Lasya from Dallas said, “We went to many Indian stores but only got one. Since it is temporary, this will be enough for 2months. Anyhow Basmati is available. If the situation doesn’t resolve, will get it from India through courier like pickles and other food”.
A Suman said, “There was stock available but the prices surged. On Thursday, there was huge crowd.Grocery stores informe that the stock will come in two days. Some are selling in black.
They buy for $16 in costco and selling for $30 in Ships. In Dallas, Godavari rice touched $50. Usually it is 23 to 24USD. Moreover there is a offer. It was increased during Covid and now again”.
It may be mentioned here that he Food and Consumer Affairs Ministry on July 20 banned the export of non-basmati white rice, with immediate effect, to stabilise the volatile retail prices in the country. Rice production has taken a hit owing to vagaries of weather such as heavy monsoon rains in rice-producing States in the north and deficit rainfall in other parts of the country.
