Govt sells sugar through Kendriya Bhandar at Rs 19 a kg

New Delhi, Sep 14 (UNI) In view of prevailing higher prices in retail market, the Government today launched sugar from the Kendriya Bhandar at Rs 19 per kg for the benefit of the common man.

Minister of State for Food and Public Distribution Dr Akhilesh Prasad Singh said there was no shortage of sugar in the country and would be sold at cheaper rate through all the 40 outlets of Kendriya Bhandar in the capital.

Shortly, sugar at this rate would be sold from Kendriya Bhandar outside the National Capital Region and across the country, he added.

The Minister said whenever there was shortage of any commodity like onions or pulses, the Government has initiated steps to sell these items through Kendriya Bhandars at lower rates.

Dr Singh said sugar production was reported at 191 lakh tonnes during the previous sugar season (2005-06) as against the domestic consumption of 185 lakh tonnes leaving a carry over stock of 39-40 lakh tonnes.

He said during the current sugar season (2006-07) a total of 227 lakh tonnes of sugar production was expected which would help contain the prices.

Replying to a question, the Minister said though sugar exports have been banned till March 31, next year, but in the wake of higher production in the season, the Government will review the situation by the end of this month.

Wheat import has already been allowed at zero per cent duty by private trade also to meet their requirements.

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