New Delhi

On Tuesday, Pralhad Joshi, the Union Minister of Consumer Affairs, Food, and Public Distribution, inaugurated the second phase of retail sales for subsidized Bharat Atta and Bharat Rice by launching mobile vans in the area. These vans are operated by the National Co-operative Consumers’ Federation of India (NCCF), the National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of India Ltd (NAFED), and Kendriya Bhandar.

In line with the government’s effort to control inflation, Bharat Atta is available for Rs 30 per kg, while Bharat Rice is priced at Rs 34 per kg. During the launch, Joshi stated that this initiative demonstrates the Government of India’s dedication to ensuring that essential food items are accessible to consumers at reduced prices. The retail sale of basic food items like rice, atta, and dal under the Bharat Brand has played a crucial role in maintaining stable prices.

Bharat Atta and Bharat Rice will be sold in 5 kg and 10 kg bags at stores and mobile vans operated by Kendriya Bhandar, NAFED, and NCCF, as well as through major e-commerce retailers. In the initial phase of this program, 3.69 lakh metric tonnes of wheat and 2.91 lakh metric tonnes of rice will be available for retail sale.

Additionally, the minister provided an update on paddy procurement in Punjab, assuring that the central government aims to meet its target of 184 lakh metric tonnes and will purchase every grain brought to the mandis.