New Delhi, April 5 -- The government's measures have kept prices of essential commodities in India stable, with staples such as rice, wheat, atta and pulses showing a decline over the year and month prior, according to consumer affairs secretary Nidhi Khare.

The government is actively monitoring prices of 40 essential commodities daily due to concerns over imported inflation, Khare said in an interview. Timely interventions, including buffer stock releases and supply-side measures, prevented any sharp spikes despite external shocks, she said.

Cereal prices have stayed flat year-on-year, according to the consumer affairs ministry's data as of 4 April. Rice stood at Rs.42.61 per kg compared with Rs.42.89 a year ago, while wheat declined t...