Thiruvananthapuram: The Kerala government has rolled out a series of measures to ensure a prosperous Onam for all the sections of society, including the disbursal of welfare pensions worth Rs 3,200 crore to 60 lakh families and large-scale market support initiatives.
Over 1,800 Onam fairs are being organised across the state through Supplyco, Consumerfed and cooperative societies, offering essential commodities at prices well below open market rates, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has said.
“Rice, priced above Rs 40 per kg in the open market, is being sold for Rs 33 at these fairs, while green gram is available at Rs 90 per kg and coconut oil at Rs 349 per litre. At a time of rising prices, this will be a major relief to the common people,” the Chief Minister said.
The government expects a turnover of around Rs 300 crore from the fairs this year.
As part of its food security measures, the government has distributed free 14 item Onam kits to AAY (yellow card) ration cardholders and welfare institutions. Additional rice for all cardholders and the kerosene quota have also been ensured, he said.
Vijayan said the state has completed payment of paddy procurement subsidies, providing much needed relief to farmers ahead of the festival. “Kerala’s cooperative sector has always played a vital role in people’s lives and will continue to stand by them during festive occasions as well,” he said, extending Onam greetings to the people.
