Bhubaneswar: Asking people not to resort to panic buying, traders of Odisha said they will ensure an uninterrupted supply chain of essential commodities under all circumstances. Sudhakar Panda, secretary of Odisha Byabasayee Sangha, said, “Just as our brave soldiers are defending the borders, we, the business community, are committed to safeguarding the economic front.In Odisha, traders are prepared to stand by the govt and people, ensuring that the supply of essential goods continues smoothly without disruption.”Panda also urged people not to indulge in panic buying or hoarding. “There is no shortage of food items or essential commodities in the market. The govt has ample reserves. Our traders are fully equipped to meet consumer demands, just as they did during the Covid-19 pandemic,” he said.Reinforcing this stance, Brij Mohan Agrawal, working president of the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT), said, “We are in a situation similar to war. The entire nation is united in spirit. Every Indian trader stands firmly with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership and with our armed forces. This is a time to show discipline, restraint, and unwavering trust in the govt.”Agrawal emphasised that the 9 crore-strong trader community across India will act responsibly, maintaining decorum and national interest. “Patriotism is not just a feeling — it is a responsibility.And we shall fulfil it with complete dedication,” he said.The trade bodies have also urged all business owners to refrain from taking hasty decisions regarding markets or prices and to await official instructions from the govt. “There is no place for rumours or instability. Let us show unity, alertness, and love for the nation through our conduct,” Agrawal added.Instances of panic buying were reported from different parts of the state in the wake of intensifying tension between India and Pakistan. The AllOdisha Traders‘ Federation appealed to the business community to avoid hoarding and instead work proactively to ensure the availability of goods at consumer’s doorsteps, if required. “Traders across Odisha will strictly follow all govt advisories, contributing to national stability during these challenging times,” assured Sarat Padhi, vice-president of the federation.