THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Instead of opening new Maveli stores, around 500 super markets will be opened. The change to the new system is to deal with the general market. Maveli stores will be reduced proportionately.

Presently there are 581 supermarkets under Supplyco. With the new move, there will be a thousand supermarkets. Apart from subsidized goods and condiments, electronic goods will also be brought to the supermarkets.

The food department is moving in a new direction as the habit of buying things from supermarkets has become widespread among people. The aim is to have two super markets in every panchayat in the future. The help of gram panchayats will be sought to find the building where the super market can be set up. Purchasing cards will be issued on the model of private super markets.

The reforms are being implemented based on the recommendations of the committee chaired by State Planning Commission member Dr Raviraman, who has studied the present condition of Supplyco and submitted a report. The report states that the old-style Maveli stores are not attracting people.

Supplyco's main challenge is paying its dues to the suppliers. The problem can be solved if half of the Rs 1525 crore due from the government for market intervention is received. 750 crore is due to the suppliers. They will deliver the goods again if half of that is paid. Subsidized goods can be distributed without government assistance if additional income is generated through the supermarkets. The agreement is to sell subsidized goods at a discount of 25% to 30% of the market price.

Offers through card

Supplyco supermarkets will also make available cards similar to the ones that can be recharged and used as they are done in shopping centres and malls of big companies. Giving offers can make people regular customers of Supplyco. E-POS machines will also be set up for the sale of subsidized goods. As it happens, a ration card can get a customer subsidized goods only once a month.

"Plans are being prepared to run SupplyCo without loss."

- GR Anil, Minister of Food and Public Distribution

Nearly a thousand Maveli

Maveli Stores ..........922

Super Markets........ 581

Hyper Markets........ 6