Consumer Affairs, Food and distribution minister Ram Vilas Paswan today said that the centre is taking many measures to check the prices of essential commodities. Replying to questions in the Lok Sabha, Mr Paswan said national consultation meeting of the State ministers in charge of consumer affairs held on 7th July last year in New Delhi resolved to take steps to keep prices of essential commodities, especially pulses and onion under control.<br/><br/>Mr Paswan said, regular review meeting on price and availability situation is being held at the highest level including at the level of Finance minister. The minister informed the House that export of onion were restricted through imposition of Minimum Export Price when prices were ruling high and import is allowed at zero duty. Mr Paswan said import of pulses are allowed at zero import duty.<br/><br/>The minister said prices of most of the essential food items monitored by Price Monitoring cell has remained relatively stable. Mr Paswan also said states have been advised to take effective action against hoarders of essential commodities under the Essential Commodities Act.