The Indian government’s decision to impose a ban on the export of non-basmati rice is a move to protect its domestic consumers from the anticipated global rice shortage caused by supply-side issues. Issues include the Ukraine war as well as any unanticipated impact of EL-Nino phenomenon. This will prevent drastic market price fluctuations and ensure anti-hoarding practices and may in fact have an indirect benefit of increasing the minimum selling price for farmers.
The ban is intended to ensure that prices do not drop too drastically, or increase too quickly for domestic consumption. However, this could potentially cause distress to Middle Eastern, Canadian, and other Non-Resident Indian (NRI) consumers who prefer local rice varieties such as Pallakad Matta, Sona Masuri, Raktshali, Indrayani, Ambemore, etc. Their strong preference for their own traditional food ingredients is sacrosanct and it may be tough to find suitable replacements.
However, the ban is likely to hit Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) who prefer the local and heirloom rice taste such as Pallakad Matta, Sona Masuri, parboiled rice, etc. The ban will affect those who have a fondness for their native rice. It is also a reminder of how interconnected the world is, and how the ripple effect of global events can be felt by even the most remote corners of the planet. On the positive side, it may make local heirloom rice varieties which are more sustainable, actually more popular among the masses. It is high time Indians become more aware of their traditional food heritage.
This is an early prevention move taken by the government to ensure food security by protecting its domestic consumers from potential global price hikes. At the end of the day, such a ban is necessary to ensure the food security of the nation. Although it may be a source of inconvenience to certain individuals, it is a reminder of the State’s and Bureaucracy’s commitment to ensure that its citizens are taken care of and that their food needs are met.
Inputs shared by Aniish Shah, Founder, Earth Harvests
