Chennai: Amid a sharp rise in the prices of essential commodities such as rice, sugar and pulses, the Tamil Nadu government has decided to consider distributing two months’ ration supplies in advance through fair price shops.
Under the public distribution system, rice card holders receive 20 kg of rice free of cost, while sugar (2 kg), toor dal (1 kg) and palm oil (1 litre) are supplied at subsidised rates. Officials said agricultural cultivation in several states has been affected due to a weaker south-west monsoon.
With foodgrain output reportedly declining, prices of essentials including rice, pulses and sugar have increased by more than Rs 20 per kg, impacting households.
A food department official said opposition parties have been criticising the government for not controlling the price rise. With Deepavali falling next month, the state is planning to begin distribution of November and December ration items from the end of this month, with a final decision to be taken after consultations with the Chief Minister.
Officials also noted increased demand for ration rice, as even some card holders who earlier did not purchase it have started buying due to higher market prices.
