Free food kits with 15 essential items for six lakh families; all goods from rice to coconut oil at fair prices

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Supplyco has announced a series of initiatives aimed at providing essential commodities at affordable prices during this Onam season. It stated that it has implemented effective market intervention measures to bring down the cost of essential items.

In connection with Onam, ten-day-long Onam Mega Fairs will be organised in all district centres, and five-day fairs will be conducted in 140 legislative constituencies. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan will inaugurate the state-level Onam Fair at Putharikkandam Maidan in Thiruvananthapuram on August 25. District-level fairs will begin on August 26 and 27 in other district centres.

The district fairs will continue until Uthradam day, September 4. In each legislative constituency, the Onam fair will be held in association with a major outlet. The constituency-level fairs will take place from August 31 to September 4. As part of the market intervention program, mobile Onam markets will travel across all constituencies from August 25, ensuring that rice, food items, and branded products reach even remote areas.

During the Onam season, rice and coconut oil will be made available at fair prices through Supplyco. Currently, 8 kilograms of rice per ration card are distributed at subsidised rates through Supplyco outlets. Additionally, during Onam, 20 kilograms of raw rice or parboiled rice will be made available per card at a special price of Rs 25 per kg.

Considering the rising price of coconut oil, Supplyco has taken steps to ensure affordable prices for the public. A new tender has been invited for coconut oil, and price agreements have been reached after discussions with suppliers. During Onam, coconut oil will be distributed under the Sabari brand in both subsidised and non-subsidised categories. Subsidised coconut oil will be sold at Rs 349 per litre and Rs 179 per half-litre pack, while non-subsidised coconut oil will be available at Rs 429 per litre and Rs 219 per half-litre. Additionally, other branded coconut oils will be available at prices lower than the MRP in Supplyco outlets. Sunflower oil, palm oil, rice bran oil, and other edible oils will also be provided as needed.

Over 6 lakh Onam kits containing 15 essential items, including a cloth bag, will be distributed to AAY cardholders and welfare institutions. The kit distribution is scheduled from August 18 to September 2.