AP Govt launches subsidisied 'Atta'

Hyderabad, Sep 21 (UNI) In a major relief to the common man, the Andhra Pradesh Government today introduced wheat flour fortified with Vitaman 'A' Folic acid and other essential micro-nutrients at just Rs 10 per Kg through the Public Distribution System (PDS).

After launching the subsidised wheat, Civil Supplies Minister N Raghuveera Reddy told reporters that initially the wheat flour is made available in the districts of Hyderabad, Rangareddy and Warangal and will be extended to cover the entire state thereafter.

''The Atta is being offered at a very cheap rate to both white and pink card holders at a price, over 50 per cent cheaper than those marketed by agro companies,'' he said.

Iodised salt is being made available at just Rs four per Kg against the average market price of Rs eight, he said, adding that Tamrind is supplied at Rs 30 against the market price of over Rs 50.

Admitting that groundnut production had been hit due to drought-like situation in parts of the state during the Khariff season, he said the extent of cultivation of edible oil crops would be enhanced during the Rabi season. Palmoil would be imported to cover up the shortfall, he added.

In view of the upcoming festival season, steps are taken to ensure cooking gas supply within four to five days, he informed.

UNI SM DKA RAI2002