The Indian government's stand on rice under OMSS (Open Market Sales Scheme) is that the centre is refusing to release rice under OMSS in order to keep stocks and check price rise. Here are some key points regarding the government's position: - The OMSS is a scheme under which the government sells food grains from its buffer stock to bulk purchasers such as state governments, institutions, and exporters. - The government has been holding back on releasing rice under OMSS due to concerns about rising prices. This comes at a time when food inflation in India has been a growing concern. - Piyush Goyal, the Minister of Commerce and Industry, has stated in a recent interview that the government's priority is to ensure that adequate stocks of food grains are available in the country, and that releasing rice under OMSS could lead to a shortage. - Goyal has also noted that the government is working to counter food inflation through measures such as increasing the availability of agricultural credit, promoting crop diversification, and supporting the development of value chains for agricultural produce. - Some critics have argued that holding back on OMSS sales could be counterproductive, as it may lead to a glut of rice in government stocks and eventually push prices down. However, the government has maintained that its decision is based on a careful assessment of market conditions and is aimed at ensuring food security for all.