KATHMANDU: The Ministry of Industry, Commerce, and Supply has mandated that discounted pricing shops for the approaching festivals be open in Nepal from September 23 through Chhath. The initiative's goal is to assist the general population throughout the holiday season by offering consumer products and necessities at a discount.

These concession outlets are to be opened by a number of state-owned enterprises, including Dairy Development Corporation (DDC), Food Management and Trade Company Limited, Nepal Oil Corporation, and Salt Trading Corporation Limited, per the Ministry's directive.

Food Management and Trade Company Limited will manage these shops at 61 locations in 42 districts, offering essential items like rice, pulses, and wheat flour at discounted rates.

Rice will be discounted by Rs 5 per kg across all types, and pulses and legumes will also see a Rs 5 discount per kg.

Wheat flour, sugar, and similar items will have Rs 7 off per kg, while cooking oils, including sunflower, soybean, and mustard oil, will be offered at Rs 7 less per liter.

Additionally, DDC will provide ghee at Rs 10 off per liter, and chicken and mutton will also be available at a Rs 10 discount per kg.

Salt Trading Corporation will set up discount shops at nine locations, including three mobile stores in the Kathmandu Valley. They will also offer concessional facilities in 22 other districts outside the valley.