Alappuzha: The Kerala government set to start distribution of sugar through ration shops and the families having yellow ration cards, belonging to Antyodaya Anna Yojana will be getting one kilogram of sugar per month, reports Mathrubhumi.com.
These cardholders are among the state’s poorest families. Although there has been a recent increase in the prices of food items distributed through the public system, the Department of Supply has recommended resuming sugar distribution to the Finance Department. The final decision on any price hike will be made by the state cabinet.
Sugar distribution was suspended in January due to the state’s financial struggles and rising costs. At that time, the price of sugar was Rs 21 per kilogram, but market rates have since risen to between Rs 43 and Rs 46. Supplyco raised the price to Rs 33, but it is unlikely that ration shops will see such a large increase.
Yellow cardholders, covered under the National Food Security Act, are eligible for a subsidy from the central government to reduce the cost of sugar. The state will cover the remaining expenses. However, the central government will release funds only after the state buys sugar through Supplyco, distributes it via ration shops, and submits the required financial reports.
Since sugar distribution has been on hold for several months, the state has not yet received central government assistance.
