Measures taken to contain Onam price rise: ₹700 crore requested for Supplyco

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Department of Food and Civil Supplies has taken measures to contain the price rise for Onam. A letter will be sent to the Finance Department requesting an immediate release of 700 crores to Supplyco. 500 crore to clear the arrears of suppliers who deliver to Supplyco and 200 crore to farmers in respect of paddy stock.

Onam is two months away. If the arrears of the suppliers are reduced or settled, the tender process can be entered into and Supplyco can supply the subsidized goods to the distributors on Onam. By this, the price rise in the public market can be prevented to some extent. The aim is to pay the dues of paddy farmers before Onam.

Finance Minister KN Balagopal had assured in the Legislative Assembly on 26th that special attention will be paid to SupplyCo. Roji M John had brought it to the attention of the assembly by showing Kerala Kaumudi report on price rise and arrears to SupplyCo. This is when the finance minister gave the assurance.

500 crore was requested in November but the finance department did not allow it due to financial crisis. It was reflected in the Christmas market. The food department is trying to avoid such a situation during Onam. At present suppliers are not delivering many goods due to non-payment of dues.