Dhaka, Jan 21 (V7N)— The government has decided to discontinue the special Open Market Sale (OMS) program that provided agricultural products at subsidised rates for lower-income groups. Financial Advisor Dr. Salehuddin Ahmed announced the decision on Tuesday during a meeting of the Procurement Advisory Committee at the Secretariat.

The program, which began on October 15, offered a package of 10 agricultural products for Tk 650 and directly benefited over 800,000 people. However, it will not be extended beyond its expiry in December.

Dr. Salehuddin explained that the government launched this initiative through the Ministry of Agriculture and Commerce to support low-income families amid rising prices. The program operated in 20 areas of Dhaka, selling essential items such as eggs, potatoes, onions, vegetables, and spices at reduced prices.

Despite discontinuing the program, the financial advisor assured that efforts are ongoing to maintain market stability. "The price of rice has decreased slightly, and other products are also under control," he said. He also hinted at adjustments to recent VAT and tax increases in the upcoming budget, claiming that these measures have not significantly impacted the market.

The decision to end the special OMS program may create challenges for low-income families, especially as the prices of daily necessities remain a concern for many.

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