Mumbai, Apr 6 (UNI) Union Agriculture Minister Sharad Pawar today said the Centre had asked the state governments to take action against people who hoard essential commodities to hike prices.

Speaking at a function of the Transport and Dock Workers Union of the Mumbai Port Trust here, Mr Pawar said there had been a surplus production of foodgrains in all categories and the inflation and price hike was man-made and a lobby was behind it.

''The wheat production in the Northern states, and production of goods in various other states has been good, but due to the handiwork of a few, the hike has taken place,'' he said.

The Minister said ''Strict action will be initiated against the hoarders to bring down the price and the state governments should do their part.'' He further said Mumbai had gained the reputation of being a commercial capital of the country due to the workers hard work, which could not be overlooked.

Mr Pawar added that the port and the textile mills in the city had contributed extensively for the development of the city.

However, the mills have now been shifting to other states, he added.

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