Kerala to launch affordable ‘Sabari K-Rice ‘

Schemes | Governance | Mains Paper 2: Government Scheme/Policies

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The Kerala government’s decision to introduce ‘Sabari K-Rice’ is seen as a response to the Union government’s distribution of ‘Bharat Rice.’

‘Bharat’ Rice refers to the retail sale of rice by the Food Corporation of India (FCI) to the general public at a subsidized price.
Its primary objective is to stabilize markets and ensure affordability for consumers.
This rice is available in 5kg and 10kg packs priced at ₹29/kg.
It is distributed through cooperatives such as Kendriya Bhandar, National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of India (NAFED), and National Cooperative Consumers’ Federation of India (NCCF).
Additionally, it can be purchased from mobile vans and physical outlets of these cooperative agencies.
Moreover, these agencies also offer ‘Bharat Atta’ (wheat flour) at Rs. 27.50 per kg in 5kg and 10kg packs.
Similarly, ‘Bharat Dal’ (chana dal / Chickpea) is available at Rs. 60 per kg for a 1kg pack and Rs. 55 per kg for a 30kg pack, along with onions priced at Rs. 25 per kg.

Objective: It aims to provide good quality rice at affordable rates, presenting an alternative to the existing subsidized rice scheme.
Distribution: K-Rice will be made available through Supplyco outlets, alongside the existing subsidized rice supply of 10 kg per card.
Quality and Pricing: K-Rice offers high-quality varieties at subsidized rates, contrasting with Bharat Rice sold by NAFED and NCCF at different prices.
Price Discrepancy: While Bharat Rice sells at ₹29 per kg, K-Rice aims to provide affordable rates, with the state government incurring additional costs to distribute it.

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