Minister of Rural Economic Affairs, P. Harison says the public will be given the opportunity to purchase rice without any difficulty during the festive season. 

Making a special statement in the parliament regarding the paddy and rice stocks of the country today, the minister emphasized there are sufficient rice stocks till April of the next year. This has been confirmed by the agricultural department. 

However, the paddy harvest of the country can be declined by 20 percent due to the drought experienced several months ago. Certain traders are attempting to create an artificial rice shortage in the markets using this situation. 

A kilo of Nadu is sold between 50 to 60 rupees. 

Minister added that the Paddy Marketing Board is issuing rice to the markets according to a proper mechanism. A committee comprised of secretaries from five ministries has also been appointed for this purpose. 

Speaking further, the minister emphasized rice will be imported if the traders attempt to create a rice shortage making difficulties to the general public.