Government has decided to make hoarding of essential commodities a non-bailable offence to check the rising prices of essential commodities. It will make necessary amendments in the Essential Commodities Act in this regard.

Talking to reporters after the state Food Ministers' conference in New Delhi today, Food Minister Ram Vilas Paswan said the Center will chalk out six month action plan to control prices of essential items. He said the plan will cover various food items including rice, onions, potatoes, tomatoes, pulses, edible oils, milk and eggs.

Mr. Paswan said that the current price rise is a temporary phenomenon created by hoarders and it is the responsibility of both the Centre and states to check it. He also asked state governments to enforce the Essential Commodities Act effectively against hoarders and black marketers to boost supply and check prices.

Earlier in the day, addressing the conference, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley said there is no need to panic as country has enough food stocks and promised stern action against black marketers.