Seven Rythu Bazaars in Visakhapatnam now host special rice counters selling steamed and raw rice below market rates. The scheme, driven by the state government, aims to curb rising food costs for consumers.

Key Takeaways

  • Steamed and raw rice sold at prices lower than market.
  • Every white ration card family gets 5 kg free rice plus up to 10 kg at discounted rates.
  • Phase‑1 rollout covers seven Rythu Bazars across Visakhapatnam district.

Inauguration of the Special Counters

District Collector Gobbilla Vidyadhari and MLA Vishnu Kumar Raju inaugurated a special rice sales counter at Seethammadhara Rythu Bazar on Monday. The counter offers both steamed and raw rice at rates significantly below prevailing market prices.

Core Features of the Scheme

Under the Civil Supplies Department’s directive, each white ration‑card household receives 5 kg of free rice monthly. Eligible families may purchase an additional 10 kg per month from the special counters at subsidised rates, easing the financial burden of food inflation.

Historical Background

Andhra Pradesh has long subsidised rice, but distribution bottlenecks often prevented benefits from reaching end‑users. After 2020, the state shifted to a direct‑sale model, establishing special counters to cut out middlemen and deliver price relief directly to consumers.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that the price gap of up to 15% can save an average household around ₹2,500 annually, helping to temper inflationary pressures in the coastal districts.

"Direct sales counters eliminate intermediaries, ensuring the real discount reaches the consumer," says agricultural economist Dr. Anjali Singh.
Did You Know?: In 2022, the average rice price in Visakhapatnam was ₹40 per kilogram, whereas the special counters now sell it at ₹34 per kilogram.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question 1: Is the scheme available to all ration‑card holders?
Answer: Yes, every white ration‑card family can access the facility, provided they stay within the prescribed limits.

Question 2: Are these counters limited to Vizag only?
Answer: Currently, the initiative operates in seven Rythu Bazars, but the state government has signalled plans to expand to other districts.