New Delhi: The ban on export of onions was lifted on Tuesday after an EGOM meeting but food minister K V Thomas has said that this was a political decision, emphasising that in a federal structure interests of the states have to be kept in mind.
"It is always a political decision. There is a political angle to many decisions but we will look into the administrative angle. Interest of the states have to be taken into account in a federal structure," he said.
"Onion prices cannot go beyond a level. Last year December, prices went upto Rs 80 per kilo, this year we have acted well in advance," said Thomas.
Speaking to CNN-IBN's Editor-in-chief Rajdeep Sardesai, he did assure consumers that onion prices will not rise beyond a particular level.
"It is not under anybody's pressure. The CM, farmers' representatives and many MPs suggested if the ban is revoked more onion will come to the market. We have to protect the interest of the farmners and interest of the consumers," said KV Thomas.
(For updates you can share with your friends, follow IBNLive on Facebook, Twitter, Google+ and Pinterest)
India @ 9 with Rajdeep Sardesai
Is BCCI saving its own people and must Srinivasan, Shukla step down?
Is BCCI chief N Srinivasan making a big mistake by not resigning?
Let the team owners take over the IPL: Lalit Modi
Naxals kill Salwa Judum founder Mahendra Karma, 20 others
BCCI officials not keen on Srinivasan's resignation, say sources
Future uncertain, CSK out to hunt Mumbai for third title
IPL: Police to probe if Meiyappan placed bets, traded insider info
