THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Kerala government, which held a discussion with Andhra Pradesh when the price of rice skyrocketed, is yet to intervene to control the prices of vegetables. It can easily curb rising prices by purchasing vegetables at a huge discount from farmers in Gundlupete, Karnataka. If Horticorp doesn't dare to do it, the vegetable lobby will take advantage of the situation, just like the rice lobby.

The price hike is due to the government's failure in implementing its promises that it will purchase food items from farmers without the intervention of middlemen and provide it to the people at reasonable prices. It is customary for the government to approach other states only when the price rises. It does not do anything when the price falls. The state approached Andhra when the price of rice crossed Rs 60. It is an achievement that Food Minister GR Anil was able to make a deal between the two governments on the purchase of rice. It will not be immediately reflected in the market.

Vegetable sample price
(Item .................price in Gundlupete........... price in Kerala)
Onion ............................ 10................... .... 40

Tomato .............................8 .................. ...... 24

Carrot ...............................20................ ..........60

Beans...................................30................. ........80

Lady's finger......................5- 10......................35- 40

Rice price hike

Prices of all types of rice, including duplicate Jaya and Matta, have increased

Item................... Current price..........two months ago

Kuruva................................41...................... ......28
White Kuruva............40.............................32
Yellow Kuruva..............40.............................33
Ponni.........................42........................ ....38
Kaima........................107...................... ......95