The government's clarification came after reports of panic buying of salt in several parts of country amid rumours of shortage. Reports say, salt is being sold in some parts at Rs 250 per kg. The consumer affairs department clarified that there is enough salt to meet any unexpected shortage.

#WATCH: Panic among people after rumours of salt shortage in UP, authorities say there is no shortage (visuals from Allahabad) pic.twitter.com/batUz6ylhM



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Don't panic, there is no shortage of salt in country, says Centre

NEW DELHI: The government on Friday said there is no shortage of salt in the country and has advised people not to indulge in panic buying."We monitor the prices of 22 essential commodities on daily basis. As per the prices reported by centres from across the country, there has been no increase in price of salt whatsoever," the department of consumer affairs said in a statement.The government's clarification came after reports of panic buying of salt in several parts of country amid rumours of shortage.According to reports, salt is being sold in some parts at rates as high as Rs 250 per kg.The department of consumer affairs clarified that there is enough salt to meet any unexpected shortage, if any."The total production of salt in India, on an average, is about 220 lakh tonnes. Of this, only around 60 lakh tonnes is used for domestic consumption. The remaining quantity is for industrial use and exports. Thus, there is sufficient manoeuvrability to meet any unexpected localised shortage, if any," the department said.Salt shortage rumours in several parts of the country have led to a panic buying spree, with people thronging to shops amid fear that the shortage could span for several days.There have also been reports of panic buying in several states including some regions of the NCR (National Capital Region). While the initial reports of panic buying came from western Uttar Pradesh, the panic soon spread to other states.Uttar Pradesh chief minister Akhilesh Yadav has directed all districts magistrates in the state to take strict measures to check panic buying of salt and act against rumour mongers. He also refuted the ongoing rumours saying that there is no shortage of salt and has directed all district supply officers to ensure that there is no hoarding of salt.