Chennai, Sept 1:
Onions will be sold at a subsidised price of Rs 35 per kg through ration shops in Tamil Nadu from September 3, Food Minister Venkataramanan announced in the Assembly.
The minister said onion prices had risen in the open market due to reduced arrivals from major producing states, including Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh. Onion prices are currently around Rs 56–60 per kg in the retail market.
To control prices and provide relief to consumers, the Tamil Nadu government has procured 1,000 metric tonnes of onions through NAFED and NCCF.
Initially, the subsidised onions will be sold through 8,739 urban fair-price shops, cooperative outlets and Amudham stores. Around 80 lakh ration-card holders are expected to benefit.
Each eligible family will be allowed to purchase one kg of onions at Rs 35 from September 3.