THRISSUR: Ration shops, which the common man is dependent on, are heading for closure in many places. The traders said they are unable to run ration shops with just the commission given by the government. Many traders have applied to close their shops and are waiting.

It has been six years since the commission amount was increased. Traders will get Rs 18,400 if 45 quintals of food grains are distributed. This is adding the Rs 220 per quintal and Rs 8,500 given by the government. The functioning of the shops has come to a standstill with the advent of the EPOS system. Customers go back as the EPOS doesn't work often. Those who come once or twice and return without getting rations don't come back later.

Less number of shops with an income of Rs 40,000

According to a survey by the civil supplies department, only 737 shopkeepers are getting a commission of more than Rs 40,000 per month. As many as 10,615 shops earn less than Rs 30,000, 3,196 shops have less than Rs 20,000 and 63 shops have income below Rs 10,000. Many are unable to pay the rent, employees' salaries and electricity charges. Each ration shop has 200 to 500 cardholders.

Cards increasing, shops decreasing

14,312 shops in 2014

14,179 shops in 2024

Decreased shops: 133

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82,13,701 cards in 2014

94,74,636 cards in 2024

Increased cards: 12,60,935

"The ration shop owners are making their wives sit in the shop. The shopkeepers are going for other jobs to feed their families. Women are also reluctant to sit in shops due to inspection and mental harassment by officials."

- Sebastian Chundal,

All Kerala Ration Dealers Asso.State Secretary