The Utility Stores Corporation (USC) has announced an increase in the price of sugar, raising it by Rs. 30 per kilogram. This move comes amidst a severe sugar shortage that USC has been grappling with for the past three months, leading to a sharp price hike. The cost of sugar has now escalated to Rs. 100 per kilogram, a substantial leap from the previous price of Rs. 70.
This price surge has sparked questions about the effectiveness of the Prime Minister’s Azadi Package, which had promised beneficiaries access to subsidized sugar at Rs. 70 per kilogram. The package also included a 10-kilogram bag of flour at a reduced price of Rs. 648. However, recent developments have cast doubts on the feasibility of these promises.
In addition to sugar, the price of banaspati ghee has also seen an increase, reaching Rs. 353 per kilogram. On a positive note, the prices of rice and lentils have been reduced by Rs. 25 per kilogram.
In response to the ongoing crisis, the USC has expressed its intention to seek approval from the federal government to import sugar. This move is aimed at stabilizing the supply and addressing price fluctuations. However, the federal government’s attempts to regulate sugar prices have faced difficulties, leading to a standstill.
Local legal actions aimed at controlling sugar prices are currently under review by the courts, adding another layer of complexity to the issue. Despite these efforts, authorities have not yet achieved the desired control over sugar prices.
The USC has been unable to provide a clear timeline for when sugar supplies might return to normal. This uncertainty has left consumers anxiously waiting for relief from the ongoing shortage. As the situation continues to unfold, USC remains committed to finding a solution to the sugar supply and pricing challenges.
