Vijayashanti Questions Rising Rice Prices in Telangana

Congress MLC and former actress Vijayashanti has raised concerns over the sharp increase in rice prices across Telangana. Questioning why people in a major rice-producing state are struggling to afford rice, she pointed out that the price of a 25-kg bag, which once cost around ₹1,500, has reportedly risen to ₹2,500. She also questioned why the price of fine rice, ranging from ₹85 to ₹100 per kg, has not been brought under control. According to her, the rice currently available in the market largely comes from the previous year's Kharif and earlier harvest seasons, when production exceeded public demand. She argued that there is no clear reason for a shortage of old rice and expressed suspicion that some traders may be creating artificial scarcity and engaging in black marketing. She urged the government to take strict action against illegal stockpiling and unauthorised sales.

Vijayashanti also questioned the transparency of the Public Distribution System (PDS), alleging irregularities involving deceased beneficiaries, fake ration cards, ineligible entries and diversion of ration rice. She stressed that every grain procured from farmers must be accounted for throughout its journey from rice mills to warehouses and ration shops. Citing official figures, she said Telangana requires 28.56 lakh tonnes of rice annually. As of October 16, stocks stood at 9.64 lakh tonnes, while another 18.39 lakh tonnes were expected to arrive. She called on the government to verify these figures and ensure transparency in the supply chain. She demanded strict action against millers, traders and officials involved in any irregularities, adding that lapses at the lower levels of the supply system should not damage the government's reputation.