Govt Warns Against Panic Buying, Assures Enough Food Stock Availability

“Don’t believe in propaganda messages regarding food stocks in the country. We have ample food stocks, far exceeding required norms. DONT PAY HEED TO SUCH MESSAGES," he wrote

Joshi dismissed circulating messages about food scarcity as "propaganda"

Source : PTI

Union Minister Pralhad Joshi has urged the public not to fall for misinformation surrounding food shortages, asserting that the country has sufficient food reserves well above the mandated norms. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Joshi dismissed circulating messages about food scarcity as "propaganda" and called on citizens to remain calm.

“Don’t believe in propaganda messages regarding food stocks in the country. We have ample food stocks, far exceeding required norms. DONT PAY HEED TO SUCH MESSAGES," he wrote.

"Traders, wholesalers, retailers or business entities which engage in trading of Essential Commodities are directed to cooperate with Law Enforcement agencies. Any person indulging in hoarding or stockpiling, shall be prosecuted under relevant sections of the Essential Commodities Act. -- Please BREAK -- Panic Buying and Blackmarketing," he added.

Additionally, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann sought to calm public concerns, assuring that there is no cause for panic. He stressed that the government would take strict measures to prevent any black marketing. "The Ministers in border areas and one more Minister deployed with them have to permanently make sure that black marketing is not happening in these areas. There is no need to worry about getting oil, queuing up at Petrol-Diesel pumps, or storing a lot of LPG cylinders. If you feel that someone is selling you goods at a higher price or indulging in black marketing, report it to the Deputy Commissioner or any government office... There is no need to panic," Mann said.

The advisory was issued amid escalating tensions between India and Pakistan. In the early hours of May 7, India launched strikes on nine terror camps located in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir as part of Operation Sindoor. According to the Indian government, the mission specifically targeted terrorist infrastructure, avoiding civilian or military installations.

In retaliation, the Pakistan Army shelled areas across the Line of Control, killing over 15 civilians. On May 8, Pakistan launched missiles and drones at multiple locations in Jammu, Punjab, and Rajasthan, though these were successfully intercepted by India’s air defense systems.