With the arrival of the Onam season, the rising prices of essential commodities in the public market have begun to subside, bringing much-needed relief to consumers. The price of rice, which had surged above Rs 60 per kg, has now fallen below Rs 50. Similarly, the prices of key spices, such as chilly and coriander, have dropped significantly. Chilly prices have reduced from Rs 300 to Rs 180-195 per kg, while coriander has halved from Rs 200 to Rs 100 per kg.
The government’s intervention through Onam markets has ensured that essential commodities remain in stock and are sold at reasonable prices, despite slight increases in items like white chickpeas and green peas. White chickpeas now cost Rs 160, up from Rs 100, while green peas have risen to Rs 160-170 per kg from Rs 60-70.
Rice supplies have been bolstered by Consumerfed and Supplyco, who stocked sufficient quantities for the Onam market. Additionally, under the Open Market Sales Scheme (OMSS), Supplyco has been able to source surplus rice from FCI godowns at lower prices, preventing further price hikes. Special provisions have also been made for ration cardholders, with 10 kg of rice available for Rs 10.90.
The current rice prices range from Rs 34 to Rs 65 per kg depending on the variety, with slight increases expected in retail markets. According to Food Minister GR Anil, the bustling Onam markets are a testament to the success of the government’s efforts to stabilize prices.
