The following booklet titled “The Grave Dangers Of State Trading In Foodgrains” authored by Ajit Prasad Jain talks about the State’s lack of allocation of sufficient resources while increasing food production capacity, which reflected the lack of proper consultation prior to the formulation of the decision by the National Development Council. The author then elaborates on the constitution of the NDC, whose membership comprises the Planning Commission and the Chief Ministers of States. Furthermore, the NDC is more inclined towards preserving the viewpoints of the Planning Commission than the Ministry in case of a conflict.

On the issue of agriculture, the author further reflects on the recommendations of the Planning Commission member who, after analysing foodgrain production growth in China, suggested a lowering of ceiling prices without considering the economic conditions of farmers, along with limited resource allocation for the same. As the proposal was implemented, the agricultural sector witnessed a shortage of nitrogenous fertilisers by 45%, proving the hollowness of its claims. Other mechanisms of state trading of foodgrains were further accepted without examining the proficiency levels of states, leading to smuggling of surplus products and drying up of market supplies. As the government refuses to shed its conviction about the glories of state trading, the author laments on the grave dangers awaiting the country.