Only 10 crores for Supplyco in budget; Minister for Food did not shake hands with KN Balagopal

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Minister for Food and Civil Supplies GR Anil has expressed dissatisfaction over the negligence shown towards Supplyco in the state budget. It must be noted that Supplyco works as a government agency for market intervention and rice procurement.

Rs 10 crore was announced for the renovation of Supplyco outlets. Minister GR Anil will convey his protest over the matter directly to the Chief Minister and Finance Minister. While all other ministers shook hands with Minister KN Balagopal after the budget presentation, GR Anil turned his back on Balagopal and did not shake hands with him.

The budget has overlooked the issue of market intervention at a time when the general market is witnessing a price hike. While the minimum support price of rubber was increased, paddy farmers were ignored. Supplyco had carried out government services such as paddy procurement, distribution of subsidized items and delivery of rice for the school meal programme by taking loans. The government has to give more than Rs 3000 crores to Supplyco in this regard.

The Food and Civil Supplies Department had sought a rescue package for the debt-ridden Supplyco. However, this was also denied.