KATHMANDU, SEPTEMBER 2
The government will begin operating fair-price shops from September 15 to provide relief to consumers ahead of the upcoming festival season.
According to a decision made by the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Supplies on August 24, the Food Management and Trading Company Limited (FMTCL) and the Salt Trading Corporation (STC) will run these subsidised outlets.
The Ministry stated that the fair-price shops will be established during the festive period to supply essential food and household items at concessional rates, prioritising the interests of ordinary consumers.
Shivram Pokhrel, Head of the Supply Management and Consumer Interest Protection Division at the Ministry, confirmed that a circular has already been issued to FMTCL and STC to begin operations.
FMTCL will provide a discount of Rs 5 per kilogram on all types of rice, lentils, wheat, sugar, and other essentials. It plans to operate subsidised outlets in 46 districts across the country.
STC, meanwhile, will run discount stores at 15 locations within the Kathmandu Valley, including three mobile outlets, and extend operations to other districts as well. Its subsidy scheme will include Rs 2 off per kilogram of salt, Rs 5 off per kilogram of sugar, Rs 7 off per litre of cooking oil, and Rs 7 off per kilogram of beaten rice, pulses, flour, and maize.
