Good news for ration card holders; kerosene distribution to resume this month

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Starting this month, kerosene will be distributed to all categories of ration card holders in the state, as well as to traditional fishing vessels with valid permits. The distribution will be carried out using the quota allocated by the central government. The Centre has sanctioned a total of 5,676 kiloliters of kerosene. Out of this, 5,088 kiloliters will be distributed through ration shops, while the remaining quota will be provided to fishing boats in June.

Yellow card holders will receive one litre of kerosene, while pink, blue, and white card holders will receive half a litre each. The quota being distributed this month covers the period from April to June. Households without electricity will be eligible to receive six litres of kerosene. It has been one year since kerosene was distributed to yellow and blue card holders, and more than two years for holders of other cards.

Currently, only yellow and pink card holders are receiving kerosene. However, due to the low quantity supplied, most distributors had withdrawn from distribution, resulting in irregular availability for these groups. At present, 780 kilolitres are being allotted per quarter (three months). Fourteen states have already stopped kerosene distribution, and the central government has been gradually phasing it out nationwide. Even the Civil Supplies Department had not expected such an allocation under these circumstances.

Meanwhile, most contractors who used to deliver kerosene from oil companies to ration shops have withdrawn from the sector due to reduced volumes and declining income. With increased allocations now, efforts are being made to bring them back. Contractors have informed the government that their measuring equipment and storage tanks have deteriorated. Only licensed contractors can handle kerosene distribution, and discussions are ongoing with them. Currently, contractors are paid Rs 325 for transporting kerosene up to the first 40 kilometres. They are now demanding an increase to Rs 400.