Introduction
The Essential Commodities Act is a law enacted by the Government of India to ensure the availability of essential commodities to the public at fair prices and to prevent their hoarding and black marketing. It was introduced in the year 1955.

Background
After India gained independence in 1947, the country faced a shortage of essential commodities due to a lack of infrastructure and resources. This led to the government enacting various laws to regulate the production, distribution, and sale of essential commodities.

The Essential Commodities Act, 1955
The Essential Commodities Act, 1955 was enacted to empower the government to regulate the production, supply, and distribution of essential commodities. The act gives the government the power to control the prices of essential commodities, prevent hoarding and black marketing, and take action against those who violate the provisions of the act.

The act defines essential commodities as goods that are essential for the life of the community or are necessary for the maintenance of public order. Some examples of essential commodities include food items like rice, wheat, and sugar, petroleum products like petrol and diesel, and drugs and medicines.

Conclusion
The Essential Commodities Act, 1955 has played a crucial role in ensuring the availability of essential commodities to the public at fair prices, especially during times of scarcity and emergencies. The act has also helped in preventing hoarding and black marketing, which can lead to artificial price hikes and shortages of essential commodities.