KATHMANDU, AUGUST 29

Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak emphasized the need to prevent artificial shortages, black marketing, price manipulation, and the sale of substandard goods to ensure smooth and easy access to daily necessities.

During a discussion with stakeholders on effective supply management and market monitoring for the upcoming festivals, he stated that any price increase must be justified. 'The sale of low-quality food items typically increases during festivals. This is when poor-quality goods often reach consumers, so it must be taken seriously.'

The Home Minister added that coordinated efforts among the concerned parties are essential for achieving results, and this will be evaluated in the next meeting after the festival.

Home Secretary Eaknarayan Aryal suggested that the Department of Commerce should conduct Zoom meetings with all Assistant Chief District Officers to enhance market monitoring. He also mentioned that the number of fair price shops will be increased during the festivals, including Dashain.

Rajan Poudel, Director General of the Department of Commercial Supply and Consumer Protection, provided an update on market monitoring activities and the status of essential daily food and consumer goods supplies.

Similarly, stakeholders emphasized that the government should retain the authority to set prices by eliminating the duplication in market monitoring efforts.