Control of Padi and Rice Act, 1994 (No. 522)

This Act, which consists of six Parts, makes provision in matter of control of padi and rice. Part II lays down detailed rules concerning the duties and powers which belong to the Director General for the control of padi and rice, under the directions to be given, from time to time, by the Minister responsible. In particular, the Director General shall: (a) conserve and maintain an adequate supply of padi and rice; (b) ensure a fair and stable price of padi for farmers; (c) ensure a fair and stable price of rice for consumers; (d) ensure sufficient supply of rice to meet all emergencies; (e) make recommendations to the Government relative to policies intended for the promotion of the development of the padi and rice industry. Furthermore, the Director General is hereby empowered to regulate the amount of padi or rice that may be kept, stored or possessed by any person, to impose rationing in respect of padi or rice, to regulate and control the milling of padi into rice as well as to conduct surveys and investigations as regards the padi and rice industry. On the other hand, Part III of the Act regulates the powers to be exercised by public officers upon written authorization issued by the Director General. Such powers, intended to implement the present provisions, cover enforcement, search, seizure and arrest. Part IV lays down penalties.