Government of India Launches Sale of ‘Bharat Rice’ at Affordable Rates

Image Source : @PiyushGoyal

Dated 6th February 2024

By TDF News Desk

New Delhi | The Government of India has initiated the retail sale of ‘Bharat’ Rice, a move aimed at providing essential commodities to consumers at affordable rates. Union Minister for Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, Textiles and Commerce and Industry, Shri Piyush Goyal, launched the sale of rice under the ‘Bharat’ brand and flagged off 100 mobile vans for distribution.

Addressing the event, Minister Goyal highlighted Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s commitment to addressing the needs of the people, particularly in maintaining the prices of essential commodities. He emphasized the government’s dedication to the welfare of both farmers and consumers, with the central government procuring essential commodities from farmers and selling them to consumers at subsidized rates when necessary.

The launch of ‘Bharat’ Rice in retail outlets operated by Kendriya Bhandar, National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of India (NAFED), and National Cooperative Consumers’ Federation of India (NCCF) aims to increase the supply of rice in the market while ensuring affordability. The rice will be available in 5 kg and 10 kg packs at a maximum retail price (MRP) of Rs. 29/kg.

Furthermore, the initiative expands upon the existing availability of ‘Bharat’ Atta and ‘Bharat’ Dal, which are being sold by these agencies at Rs. 27.50 per kg and Rs. 60 per kg respectively. Onions are also available at Rs. 25 per kg. Consumers can now access a range of essential food items, including rice, atta, dal, and onions, at fair and affordable prices through these outlets.

The distribution of essential commodities under the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana (PMGKAY) extends to farmers, general consumers, over 80 crore beneficiaries under the Targeted Public Distribution System, as well as various other groups such as school children, children in anganwadis, adolescent girls, and children in hostels.

With the introduction of ‘Bharat’ Rice into the market, the government continues its efforts towards ensuring the welfare of consumers by providing essential food items at reasonable prices.