THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Although the price of rice in Kerala has slightly decreased, the price of groceries are still high. After a sharp rise in prices, no evident change was seen in two weeks. As the stock of groceries in Supplyco has decreased, the government's market intervention has also stalled. The only relief is that vegetable prices have fallen sharply. The prices have become halved.

The goods such as rice, chillies, millet etc were received in Supplyco, will soon become unavailable as the stock runs out. Supply of subsidized coconut oil has been temporarily stopped. Suppliers from various states have withheld supplies due to arrears in payment prices. Last September and October alone, Rs 155 crore is due to suppliers. New order will not be considered without providing this.

The Food Minister has called a meeting of top officials at Kochi Supplyco headquarters on 18th to assess the situation and find a solution.

*Rs 200 is granted per year as subsidy to people.

*Supplyco spends Rs 480,

* Rs 280 crore will be found from the profit obtained through non-subsidized sources.

Vegetable price

Item – 2 weeks ago - now

Ladies finger--- 40------ 20

Brinjal - 50------ 25

Beans ----100------ 40

Snake gourd------40------- 25

Carrot----- 50--- 40

Cucumber--25---18