Bharat Rice FAQs: Price, How To Buy, And More - Your 10 Questions Answered

The BJP-led NDA government has launched 'Bharat Rice' at a subsidised rate of Rs 29 per kilogram to provide relief to consumers amid a 15 per cent rise in retail prices of the grain in the last one year.

"When the wholesale intervention (to control prices) was not benefitting more people, the retail intervention was started under the Price Stabilisation Fund(PSF)," Food and Consumer Affairs Minister Piyush Goyal said after launching the subsidised rice.

People should note that in each kg of 'Bharat Rice', there will be 5 per cent of broken rice.

Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about the 'Bharat Rice'.

1. What is 'Bharat Rice', and why was it introduced?

'Bharat Rice' is a subsidised rice introduced by the government to address the 15 per cent increase in retail rice prices over the past year. It is offered at Rs 29/kg and aims to stabilize prices for this essential food staple.

2. How will 'Bharat Rice' be available for purchase?

'Bharat Rice' will be available in 5 kg and 10 kg packs for retail sale through designated outlets.

3. Who launched the sale of Bharat rice and when?

Food Minister Piyush Goyal officially launched the sale of Bharat rice and inaugurated mobile vans for its distribution.

4. Why did the government opt for retail sale of FCI rice instead of selling to bulk buyers?

The government decided to introduce retail sale of FCI rice due to a lukewarm response to selling rice to bulk buyers via the Open Market Sale Scheme (OMSS).

5. What other subsidized goods are available besides Bharat rice?

Alongside Bharat rice, the government offers Bharat Atta (wheat), Bharat Dal, and onions at discounted prices through cooperatives like NAFED, NCCF, and Kendriya Bhandar.

6. How can consumers access these subsidised goods?

Subsidised goods are available through designated outlets and mobile vans operated by NAFED, NCCF, and Kendriya Bhandar, providing widespread access across the nation.

7. Are there any plans for expanding the range of subsidised goods in the future?

The government is continuously evaluating the market situation and may introduce additional subsidised goods based on consumer needs and market conditions.

8. Is there any eligibility criteria to buy Bharat Rice?

Anybody residing in India can buy it.

9. Can you buy the Bharat Rice from e-commerce sites?

Yes, you can. But leading sites are yet to start the process of selling the bags.

10. How much Bharat Rice can an individual purchase?

An individual is entitled to 10 kg of Bharat Rice.