Govt to boost veggie procurement by 20% ahead of festive season

Panaji: In preparation for an increase in demand during the Christmas–New Year season and the peak tourist period, the Goa State Horticulture Corporation Ltd (GSHCL) announced that it will step up vegetable procurement by around 20% starting Monday. This will continue until the first week of Jan.

The corporation’s managing director, Chandrahas Desai, said the move is aimed at ensuring an uninterrupted supply of essential vegetables across Goa at a time when consumption typically rises due to festivities and a surge in tourist arrivals. “There is no cause for concern over any shortage, as advance arrangements have already been made with suppliers to maintain steady inflows,” he told TOI.


He further said that special attention has been given to essential commodities such as onions, potatoes, and tomatoes, which are being procured in advance. “This measure has been taken in view of limited auction days at the Belgavi market, one of the major sourcing hubs for vegetables supplied to Goa, where the auction only takes place on Wednesdays and Fridays,” he said.

Desai assured consumers that prices of essential green vegetables will not be increased. “Our focus has always been on price stability and availability, particularly during high-demand periods. We will ensure that rates continue to be stable during the festive season,” he said.