Budget-friendly government markets a major hit: Adequate rice and subsidised supplies ensured

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Government-run markets and outlets are witnessing a huge rush ahead of Onam as rice and other essential items are being sold at significantly lower prices than in the open market. While several varieties of rice are priced at more than Rs 60 per kg in the open market, the same is available at Rs 33 per kg at Supplyco outlets and Onam fairs. Additional rice is also being sold through ration shops at Rs 26 per kg, offering consumers savings of nearly half the market price. With adequate stocks available, people are flocking to ration shops, Supplyco outlets, Consumerfed stores and Onam markets to buy rice and other essential items at subsidised rates.

Ahead of Onam, an additional 1,65,932 tonnes of rice has been supplied to Supplyco and public distribution centres. Other subsidised items have also been made available in sufficient quantities. Kerala Kaumudi had reported on August 13 that prices of rice and other essential commodities were rising sharply in the open market. The government's intervention was stepped up following concerns over the price rise.

The report had also pointed to allegations that mill owners and middlemen in Andhra Pradesh were working together to push up rice prices in Kerala. Food Minister Anoop Jacob intervened in the matter, while special squads were formed to inspect rice mills and wholesale markets across Kerala. The inspections are aimed at preventing hoarding and artificial price hikes.

Additional rice through ration shops

1. Additional rice is being made available at ration shops at Rs 26 per kg, over and above the regular quota.
2. For Onam, an additional 13,841.37 tonnes of rice was supplied to ration shops. Of this, 3,929.77 tonnes have already been sold. Supplyco outlets have so far sold 578 tonnes of rice.

Subsidised items and prices at Supplyco

Item........................Price
Green gram............Rs 85/kg
Black gram.............Rs 87/kg
Bengal gram...........Rs 63/kg
Cowpea..................Rs 68/kg
Toor dal..................Rs 83/kg
Dried red chilli........Rs 130/kg
Jaya rice.................Rs33/kg
Kuruvai rice............Rs 33/kg
Matta rice...............Rs 33/kg
Raw rice.................Rs 29/kg
Coconut oil..............Rs 229/litre
Coriander................Rs 45/500g