To combat rising food prices, Union Minister Piyush Goyal introduced ‘Bharat Rice’ in New Delhi on Tuesday. The launch involved sending 100 vehicles loaded with subsidized rice to central distribution agencies’ outlets, ensuring direct access for consumers.
According to a press release dated February 2, the first phase involves the allocation of 5 LMT (Lakh Metric Tonnes) of rice under the ‘Bharat Rice’ brand through three agencies: NAFED, NCCF, and Kendriya Bhandar.
The retail price for ‘Bharat Rice’ is set at Rs. 29/kg and will be available in 5 kg and 10 kg bags. Initially, it will be sold through mobile vans and physical outlets of the three central cooperative agencies, with plans for availability through other retail chains and e-commerce platforms soon.
In November 2023, the government launched subsidized wheat sales under the brand ‘Bharat Atta’, also distributed through cooperatives NAFED, NCCF, and Kendriya Bhandar. Additionally, the government is providing ‘Bharat Dal’ at Rs. 60/kg and onions at Rs. 25/kg through Kendriya Bhandar, NAFED, and NCCF to offer relief to consumers.