Now, ration shops to sell tomatoes in TN

In a significant move aimed at addressing the rising prices of essential commodities, the Tamil Nadu government has announced the introduction of tomato sales in ration shops across the state. This initiative aims to provide relief to the common man by offering tomatoes at subsidized rates, ensuring their availability to all sections of society.
The decision to include tomatoes in the list of items sold through ration shops was made during a high-level meeting held by the Tamil Nadu Food and Civil Supplies Department. The meeting was attended by government officials, representatives from agricultural departments, and experts from the agricultural sector.
Speaking about the initiative, S. Vijayakumar, the Minister for Food and Civil Supplies, stated, “Tomatoes are a staple ingredient in many households, and their prices have been soaring in recent times. By introducing tomato sales in ration shops, we aim to stabilize the prices and make this essential vegetable more affordable for the people of Tamil Nadu.”
Under the new scheme, tomatoes will be sold at a subsidized rate of Rs. 10 per kilogram through authorized ration shops. The state government will procure tomatoes directly from farmers at a fair price, ensuring a steady supply of the vegetable to ration shops across the state. The subsidized rate is significantly lower than the prevailing market prices, which have witnessed a sharp increase due to supply chain disruptions and other factors.
The decision has been met with widespread appreciation from the public, who have been burdened by the skyrocketing prices of tomatoes. Many consumers have expressed relief at the prospect of being able to purchase tomatoes at an affordable rate, ensuring that they can continue to include this essential ingredient in their daily meals.
Farmers in Tamil Nadu have also welcomed the move, as it provides them with a guaranteed market and fair prices for their produce. The government’s direct procurement from farmers will help them avoid middlemen and ensure that they receive a reasonable income for their hard work.
To facilitate the smooth implementation of the scheme, the Tamil Nadu government has directed ration shop owners to maintain adequate stocks of tomatoes and ensure their regular replenishment. Strict measures will be taken to prevent hoarding and black market activities, ensuring that the benefits of the initiative reach the intended beneficiaries.
The Tamil Nadu government’s decision to introduce tomato sales in ration shops is expected to alleviate the financial burden on households and promote food security in the state. This move serves as a proactive step towards ensuring the availability of essential commodities at affordable prices and reflects the government’s commitment to the welfare of its citizens.
As the implementation of the scheme begins, it is hoped that other states will take inspiration from Tamil Nadu’s initiative and explore similar measures to address the rising prices of essential commodities, ultimately benefiting the common man across the country.