The Essential Commodities (Amendment) Ordinance, 2020 was promulgated on June 5, 2020. It amends the Essential Commodities Act, 1955.
The Act empowers the central government to control the production, supply, distribution, trade, and commerce in certain commodities.
The Ordinance seeks to increase competition in the agriculture sector and enhance farmers’ income.
It aims to liberalise the regulatory system while protecting the interests of consumers.