THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Kerala's traditional festival Onam is just around the corner but the normal citizens are in disarray seeing the ever soaring price of essential commodities. Fighting a crumbling economy, the Kerala government sought respite from the central government and beseeched New Delhi to approve a new ad-hoc loan of Rs 10000 crore. If not, the distribution of welfare pensions, and salaries to govt employees, and the upcoming festive season will go in ruins.

The annual borrowing limit for states is just three percent of the gross domestic product. However, Kerala is asking for one percent more. Moreover, the state has never faltered in repaying loans and believes New Delhi allows its much-needed solace through ad-hoc loans. The Gross State Domestic Product of Kerala is Rs 110000 crore.

The state has also requested the Centre to give their GST share without arrears. Earlier, Kerala had asked for higher tax revenue to fight the plunging economy. Now, the state wants restrictions to be eased while allowing the loan. Till December, Kerala can avail loan of Rs 15390 crore from the central government. From this, Rs 12500 crore has already been approved and collected by the state. The remaining Rs 2890 crore won't be sufficient for Kerala to ease past the Onam season, as the pension and salary amount to be distributed alone needs Rs 7000 crore.

Kerala farmers are yet to receive the payment for the procured paddy and there is an air of tension looming between farmers and the government in the state. On another note, KSRTC employees won't accept an arrear in payment for onam season and it falls under the onus of the government to ensure the salaries reach employees' pockets this time.

To start Onam markets across the state, Supplyco has demanded Rs 1500 crore. The food department has duly followed the request to the government. Essential commodities will be made available through Supplyco at a 20% lesser rate than the normal market price. The government is keeping stoic silence when questioned about the onam kit this year. From reports heard, the state government will be forced to provide onam kits just to BPL families.