Andhra Pradesh to sell rice at subsidised rates through rythu bazaars from August 1
In an effort to stabilise rice prices and provide relief to consumers, the Andhra Pradesh government has announced that it will sell quality rice at subsidised rates through 130 rythu bazaars and around 500 special counters across the state starting August 1.
Minister for Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs Nadendla Manohar made the announcement after reviewing prevailing rice prices with representatives of rice millers at the Secretariat on Thursday.
Under the initiative, BPT/KNM Super Fine rice will be sold at ₹52 per kilogram, while Grade-I Raw Rice will be available for ₹50 per kilogram — approximately ₹10 lower than the current market price.
The minister said the government had received feedback from consumers about a steady increase in rice prices, prompting the intervention. He attributed the rise to factors such as global geopolitical developments, concerns over the El Niño weather pattern, and increasing transportation and operational costs. The government is committed to ensuring price stability, he added, noting that a similar intervention by the previous coalition government had yielded positive results.
The subsidised rice will be sold under the supervision of the Civil Supplies Department through counters operated by district rice millers' associations. To prevent diversion and ensure that genuine beneficiaries receive the rice, the government plans to introduce biometric or Aadhaar-based authentication for purchases.
The minister said rice millers have agreed to participate directly in the programme, eliminating middlemen, and will allocate 10% of their stocks for sale through the special counters. They also assured the government of adequate supply to urban areas and districts with lower paddy production.
Mr. Manohar said the initiative aims to provide quality rice at affordable prices while helping stabilise the market. He also reiterated the government's commitment to promoting 'Brand AP' by strengthening the state's rice sector, improving quality standards, and expanding exports of premium Andhra Pradesh rice.
