Government Tightens Sugar Stock Limits Ahead of Festival Season

New guidelines issued by the Ministry of Consumer Affairs restrict the quantity of sugar that traders and processors can hold in inventory, aiming to curb speculative hoarding before Diwali, Navratri and other celebrations. The rules cap stock levels at 30 days of average consumption for each entity and require real-time reporting to the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI).<br/>Enforcement will be overseen by state food-control departments, which can levy penalties for non-compliance and seize excess stocks. The government has also directed major sugar mills to align their procurement with the revised limits and to share data through an online portal.<br/>Industry analysts expect the move to stabilise prices ahead of the festive demand surge, while some traders warn of short-term supply adjustments. A senior ministry official said the policy is intended to protect consumers from price spikes and ensure equitable distribution during the peak season.