Supply of sugar to the consumers had become ticklish after the Food Corporation of India stopped supply of levy sugar to the State sometimes back. It became difficult for ordinary citizens to have regular sugar supply to which they were used. But now the situation is likely to ease in next one month as the State Government has finally approved one miller/supplier of Maharashtra for supply of sugar which the State will provide for public distribution at a cost of about Rs. 13.50 per kilogram. Three millers had responded to the tender notice of the State Government and one of them has been approved. According to informed sources, at present the State government has sent samples of sugar for chemical test. Once the quality of the sugar is approved, transportation of sugar from Maharashtra to Srinagar will begin. Transportation and storage charges will be borne by the contractor. There are many formalities that have to be completed in this deal. It is believed that this entire process may be underway by the end of this month. This is good news for the consumers in the State.
We appreciate the efficiency of the Government agencies in finding a solution to the issue of supply of sugar for public distribution in the State. We are hopeful that the right agency has been chosen to begin supply of entire sugar quota to the State in time. There is a set procedure of how such procurements are to be made and we hope that all procedures set forth will be adhered to and that nothing untoward will happen while finalizing the matter. We would also like to caution the Government and especially the Public Distribution System against black-marketing practice commonly resorted to by small dealers in retail. The Government has to ensure that ordinary citizens are not exploited and fleeced when they have to purchase sugar from open market.
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