Telangana State government will distribute subsidized jowar and maize through the Public Distribution System (PDS) ration shops, beginning in November 2023. This initiative aims to provide affordable nutritious food grains to cardholders, particularly benefiting those who consume these grains regularly.
The state government has procured 2.30 lakh tonnes of jowar and maize directly from farmers at a minimum support price (MSP). This procurement directly benefits farmers by ensuring a fair price for their produce and reducing distress sales. The procured grains will now be made available to approximately 60 lakh cardholders.
Eligible cardholders can purchase jowar at ₹5 per kg and maize at ₹4 per kg, significantly lower than market prices. Each eligible family will be able to purchase up to 5 kg of jowar and 5 kg of maize per month.
The decision to distribute jowar and maize through PDS is a response to requests from consumers and a recognition of the nutritional value of these grains. Jowar and maize are staple foods for many in Telangana, and making them accessible at affordable prices will improve food security for vulnerable sections of the population.
The government anticipates this initiative will help stabilize prices in the market and prevent hoarding. The distribution will be managed by the Telangana State Civil Supplies Corporation (TSCSC). The TSCSC has made necessary arrangements for the storage and transportation of the grains to ensure smooth distribution through the PDS network.
This move is also seen as a way to diversify the food basket available through the PDS, which traditionally focuses on rice and wheat. The government hopes this will encourage greater consumption of millets and coarse grains, promoting healthier dietary habits. The initiative represents a commitment to both supporting farmers and ensuring food security for the state’s citizens.
