Rs.2 PER KG RICE for KERALA !

Currently rice for Rs 2 is available to only those who are listed in the below poverty line category. For other card holders, the price is Rs 9 per kg.

The Left Front government in Kerala is set to announce an ambitious programme where rice for all would be offered at Rs 2 per kg, according to state Finance Minister Thomas Issac.

"It will cost (the government) around Rs 30 crore a month and I am taking the gamble. I am doing this because some people appear to be wondering if Tamil Nadu can do this, why not Kerala," asked Issac, referring to the policy in the neighbouring state.

When asked whether the plan has been approved, the minister said it is almost through and will come up in Wednesday's cabinet meeting.

"This programme will be available to all those who register their name with the civil supplies department to join the scheme. Then we will decide on what should be the ceiling limit for each card holder," Mr.Issac said.

The move is significant as state assembly polls will be announced soon with the government's term ending May 17 ,2011.