Sugar distribution through ration shops set to resume in Kerala; price hike expected ..
Sugar distribution for yellow cardholders under the Antyodaya Anna Yojana scheme is set to resume in Kerala, providing one kilogram per month. Despite financial challenges, the state will cover part of the cost, with a central subsidy. Supplyco raised the sugar price, but ration shops may not see a steep hike. A cabinet decision on pricing is pending.
Alappuzha: Sugar distribution through ration shops is set to resume in the Kerala, with yellow card holders (Antyodaya Anna Yojana–a type of ration card issued to families in India who are below the poverty line) eligible to receive one kilogram per month. Although Supplyo hiked the price of food items supplied through the public distribution system, the department has recommended resuming distribution to the Department of Finance. The cabinet will make the final decision on the price hike.
The suspension of sugar distribution in January was due to the ongoing financial crisis and rising prices. At that time, the price was Rs 21 per kilogram, while the current market price ranges between Rs 43-46.
Supplyco had raised the sugar price to Rs 33, but ration shops will not see such a steep increase.
Yellow cardholders are covered under the National Food Security Act, ensuring that the central government will provide a fixed subsidy for their sugar. The remaining cost will be borne by the state. The central government will release funds only after the state procures sugar through Supplyco, distributes it via ration shops, and submits the necessary financial records.
As sugar distribution has been on hold for an extended period, the state is yet to receive assistance from the centre.
Previously, all ration card categories were entitled to sugar allocations.
Ration shop owners may be exempted from Haritha Karma Sena’s user fee
Supplyco has recommended that ration shop owners be exempted from paying the monthly Rs 100 user fee levied by the Haritha Karma Sena. The recommendation was made to the Local Self Government Department, citing that ration shops do not generate plastic or other waste materials.
Despite this, the fee, along with any arrears, is collected during licence renewal processes at local bodies. The Minister for Food has raised the issue with the Local Self Government Minister, seeking relief for the traders who have expressed concerns over the mandatory payments.
Source Link : https://english.mathrubhumi.com/news/kerala/sugar-distribution-resume-kerala-yellow-card-holders-1.9921577
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