TN Govt. desperate to replenish rice stocks

CHENNAI, Nov 9: Following a sharp increase in demand for rice in the public distribution system due to the prevailing high prices in the open market, the State Good Department is working out ways to replenish its stocks in order to prevent a ‘difficult situation’ in the lean period. The problem has been magnified due to low procurement by the State Civil Supplies Corporation this kuruvai season in the Cauvery delta and the stoppage of traditional flow from the neighbouring Andhra Pradesh where the local trade prospects are stated to be extremely good.