Sept 16 Reuters India has implemented a series of measures to facilitate the exports of certain farm goods and limit imports of vegetable oils ahead of local elections in two states where farmers form an influential voting bloc.

The moves surprised the market, as New Delhi typically tries to protect consumers39; interests during the peak festival season. However, this year, it prioritised supporting farmers, setting aside inflationary concerns.

Here are some facts about policy initiatives on rice, vegetable oils, wheat, onions and yellow peas

EASING EXPORT CURBS

India has removed a floor price for basmati rice exports to help farmers boost overseas sales of the premium grade.

Last year New Delhi set a floor price, or minimum export price MEP, of 1,200 a metric ton and later cut the MEP to 950 a ton.

India and Pakistan, the only growers of basmati, compete for global market share for the premium rice.

New Delhi also removed the 550 a metric ton MEP on onions, one of the most ubiquitous food items in India.

The world39;s biggest onion exporter also slashed export tax to 20 from 40.

IMPOSING TARIFFS

India, the world39;s biggest edible oil importer, imposed a 20 basic customs duty on key edible oils, to help protect farmers reeling from lower oilseed prices.

Effective import duty on crude palm oil, crude soyoil and crude sunoil rose 27.5 from 5.5 as they are also subject to India39;s Agriculture Infrastructure and Development Cess and Social Welfare Surcharge….