No takers for rice scheme in Mandya

Hitherto, there was a very good demand for this scheme and people purchased rice and wheat in large quantity. Infact, the then Food and Civil Supplies Minister and District In-incharge minister R Ashok had inaugurated this scheme in August. The State government had launched this scheme to sell rice at Rs 13 per kg and Rs 9.50 paise for per kg of wheat. The rice and wheat being distributed to BPL card holders, were being sold to APL card holders too. In fact, the quality of rice is said to be good.

Following good demand from citizens, the government had released 600 metric tonnes of rice and 857 quintals of wheat to the district.  Each person can buy 50 kg of rice. The officials of department concerned created confusion that rice and wheat would be sold for only those who produce identity cards issued by government, semi-government and private organisations. This resulted in decline in demand from general public. There are people who are ready to purchase provided the officials remove such conditions.

Meanwhile, deputy director of  Food and Civil Supplies Department Kumuda Girish said this scheme will be introduced in all taluks from next month.  The APL card holders can buy five kilogram of rice at Rs  9.25 pe kg and wheat at Rs 7.40 per kg.