Question : INCREASE IN PDS PRICE



(a) whether the Government proposes to increase or has increased the price of foodgrains distributed to the Above Poverty Line (APL) and Below Poverty Line (BPL) categories under the Public Distribution System (PDS);

(b) if so, the details thereof and the reasons therefor along with the expenditure incurred on the procurement, handling and transportation of the said items;

(c) whether any discussions/consultations were held with the States in this regard;

(d) if so, the details and the outcome thereof and if not, the reasons therefor;

(e) whether the Government has assessed the impact of the said hike on the prices of foodgrains in the open market; and

(f) if so, the details and the outcome thereof and the corrective steps taken in this regard?

Answer given by the minister


MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR CONSUMER AFFAIRS, FOOD & PUBLIC DISTRIBUTION (PROF. K.V. THOMAS)

(a) & (b): No, Madam. The Central Issue Price (CIP) of foodgrains distributed to the Above Poverty Line (APL) and Below Poverty Line (BPL) categories under the Public Distribution System (PDS) have not been increased since 2002. However, the details of expenditure incurred on the procurement, handling and transportation of the foodgrains is at Annexure-I.

(c): No, Madam.

(d), (e) and (f): Does not arise.