Prices of onions , tomatoes expected to moderate soon: Govt

"There have been some reports in the media of a sharp increase in the prices of onions and tomatoes in recent days," read a government statement.

"Marginally increase in the prices of onions in the past week and in the prices of tomatoes is largely on account of disruption of supplies from the Southern States which have witnessed severe, unprecedented rainfall over the last one week. These increases are expected to be temporary and normal supplies should resume soon," it said.

The arrivals of the new crops of tomatoes are expected to ease prices. There is a moderate increase in prices during September-December due to demand supply mis-match, the Government is working closely with the State Governments to ensure that quick action is taken to prevent any abnormal increase in prices and to ensure adequate availability of essential commodities.

"As regards pulses, it may be recalled that Government has and continues to take strong measures to enhance availability of pulses to moderate prices in the market place," read the statement.

It further said:"A high-level review of the prices of essential commodities and their availability and measures required to be taken is scheduled to be held on 18.11.2015. Besides, reviewing the de-hoarding operations on pulses and steps taken by State Governments to improve availability of Pulses at reasonable prices, the meeting is expected to also review the progress in the procurement of pulses aimed at building a buffer stock."