Union Minister for Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, Textiles, and Commerce and Industry, Piyush Goyal, took a significant step towards ensuring affordable and stable prices of essential food items by flagging off 100 mobile vans for the sale of wheat flour (Atta) under the 'Bharat' brand. The launch ceremony took place at Kartavya Path, New Delhi, and the initiative aims to make quality Atta available at reasonable rates, with an MRP not exceeding Rs 27.50 per kilogram.
This latest move is part of a series of measures taken by the Government of India (GoI) to prioritize the welfare of ordinary consumers. By introducing retail sales of 'Bharat' brand Atta, the government seeks to increase the supply of this essential food item in the market while maintaining affordable prices. Starting from today, 'Bharat' Atta will be available at all physical and mobile outlets of Kendriya Bhandar, NAFED, and NCCF. Additionally, there are plans to expand its availability to other cooperative and retail outlets, making it even more accessible to the public.
Under the Open Market Sale Scheme (OMSS), the GoI has allocated 2.5 lakh metric tons of wheat at the rate of Rs 21.50 per kilogram to semi-government and cooperative organizations, such as Kendriya Bhandar, NCCF, and NAFED. This wheat will be converted into atta and offered to the public under the 'Bharat Atta' brand, ensuring that it remains affordable with an MRP not exceeding Rs 27.50 per kilogram.
During the launch event, Piyush Goyal emphasized the Centre's efforts to stabilize the prices of essential commodities. He noted that similar measures had been taken in the past for items like tomatoes and onions to alleviate price fluctuations. Additionally, the government is providing Bharat Dal at a subsidized rate of Rs 60 per kilogram through Kendriya Bhandar, NAFED, and NCCF, further easing the burden on consumers.
Goyal highlighted that these initiatives not only benefit consumers but also support farmers. The government's purchase of produce from farmers at fair prices and subsequent distribution at subsidized rates has contributed to price stability for various commodities. He underlined that Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, has a vision to support both consumers and farmers.
Already, 'Bharat Dal' (Chana dal) is being sold at Rs 60 per kilogram for a 1 kg pack and Rs 55 per kilogram for a 30kg pack by the three agencies through their physical and retail outlets. Onions are also available at a reasonable price of Rs 25 per kilogram. With the introduction of 'Bharat Atta', consumers can now access atta, dal, and onions from these outlets at fair and affordable prices, furthering the government's commitment to supporting the welfare of the citizens.
