Five months since Supplyco subsidy stopped; price rise in market

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Almost five months after the supply of subsidized goods in SupplyCoil stopped, the price of rice and other commodities is increasing in the general market.

In rural retail centres, the price of rice has crossed Rs 50 per kg. The price of condiments have also increased. The wholesale price of vadi rice, which was Rs 42 to Rs 46 a month ago, has gone up to Rs 52 today. The price in the retail market is up to Rs.58. Unda rice is priced at Rs 42-44 in the wholesale market and Rs 48-53 in the retail market. The wholesale price of white rice (Jaya) from Andhra is Rs.41. Packaged rice should be paid between Rs 60 and Rs 70 per kg.

Rice used to be available at Rs 25 per kg in Supplyco marketing centres. It was a boon for the common man as all types of ration card holders got subsidy. However, even on Onam and Christmas, trading was done at subsidized rates only on certain days. The expert committee report, which recommended increasing the price of subsidized goods, is under the consideration of the government. As elections are approaching, it is unlikely that the cabinet will approve the report soon.

The suppliers are of the position that they will not deliver the goods without getting the outstanding amount of Rs 800 crore. The supply of non-subsidized goods was also at a standstill. Last week, the finance department had sanctioned Rs 100 crore of the amount due to Supplyco. Some of the suppliers have been paid nominal dues from it, which is why some of the goods are still getting supplied.

Sales down, revenues secret

From where there was a turnover of 8 crore to 10 crore rupees per day, the income has sunk to a state where there is no turnover of even 1 crore rupees. With that situation Supplyco, removed the turnover information from its website. The income for December 15 was Rs 70.59 lakh. The information was removed after that.

General market price rise (gross price)

Item (kg) ----------- Current Price------- One month ago

Matta Vadi Rice ..............................46-52............. ...................42-56

Matta Unda Rice ...........................42- 44............... ................38-42

Andhra White..................................41-41................ ...............38-40

Surekha.........................................43- 47....... ........................39-41

Pulses ........................................110-125.. ...........................95-100

Black gram..................................130-135.... .......................100-110

Chickpea ......................................70- 80................................60-70

Due from Government to Supplyco: 1425 Cr

"Financial problems will be solved soon. Negotiations are in progress. The difficulties faced by the people will be solved.

- GR Anil, Food Minister