The Newz Radar
SHIMLA: Ration card holders in Himachal Pradesh will witness changes in the prices of essential commodities available at ration depots.
Mustard oil, commonly used for cooking, will now be available at a higher cost of Rs 5 to 10 per litre. However, consumers will find some respite as the prices of chana dal and urad dal have decreased by Rs 4 and Rs 6 per kg, respectively.
During April, the prices of mustard oil for Below Poverty Line (BPL) ration card holders were set at Rs 132 per litre while Above Poverty Line (APL) card holders were charged Rs 142 per litre. Taxpayer consumers had to pay Rs 160 per litre. In May, the prices have been revised, with BPL consumers now required to pay Rs 142 per litre, APL consumers at Rs 147 per litre and taxpayers continuing to pay Rs 160 per litre. The contracted supplier oil company has commenced the delivery of supplies to the depots.
Another notable change in prices is the increase in moong dal by Rs 8 per kg. BPL consumers will now have to pay Rs 72 per kg instead of the previous rate of Rs 66, while APL consumers will be charged Rs 82 per kg instead of Rs 74.
With a total of 19.5 lakh ration card consumers in Himachal Pradesh, the government aims to provide essential commodities at subsidised rates compared to the prevailing market prices. However, due to varying subsidy amounts, the prices at government ration depots are subject to fluctuations. The Food and Civil Supplies Corporation is responsible for monitoring and implementing these changes to ensure a fair distribution system for the beneficiaries.
