"Price of sugar dropped from Rs 46 to Rs 33, is this price hike?" Minister G R Anil defends increase in subsidized goods

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Food Minister GR Anil has defended the recent price increases of various subsidized goods including rice and sugar, at SupplyCo stores. The minister emphasized that despite the hikes, the prices remain lower than those in the general market.

G R Anil questioned whether the change in price of sugar from Rs 46 to Rs 33 per kg could be considered a price hike, arguing that the adjusted rates are still below market levels. He highlighted that SupplyCo's prices are competitive compared to other government-operated stores in India and noted the government's efforts to provide relief to consumers.

The minister's comments came amid public outcry following the recent price adjustments, particularly during the Onam when many sought affordable food options at SupplyCo. The price of short rice, a subsidized item, has been increased from Rs 30 to Rs 33 per kg and the price of paddy rice was similarly raised. The price of jasmine rice is set to increase from Rs 26 to Rs 29 per kg, though this adjustment has not yet been implemented.

Of the 13 subsidized items, only four have not seen a price increase. The price of split peas has risen from Rs 111 to Rs 115 per kg, while the price of chickpeas has been reduced from Rs 92 to Rs 90. The government has also announced a revision of subsidized goods' prices to align them more closely with market rates.