The Open Market Sale Scheme (OMSS) is a government initiative in India that allows states to purchase food grains from the central pool at market prices. Here are a few key points to understand how it works:

• The central government buys food grains from farmers at Minimum Support Prices and stores it in the central pool.
• Under OMSS, the government sells these grains to states, who can then distribute them to those in need.
• The prices at which the grains are sold to the states are market-driven. However, the government often subsidizes the prices to ensure they are affordable.
• States are allowed to buy any quantity of grains they need, subject to availability.

Despite the benefits of the OMSS, some states are seeking alternative ways to purchase food grains. One reason for this is that the central government sometimes limits the amount of grains available for purchase through OMSS. Additionally, some states may prefer to procure grains directly from farmers through their own procurement schemes to ensure food security.