Kerala will distribute free Onam kits from August 10 to over six lakh beneficiaries as the government allocates ₹448 crore to keep prices of essential commodities under control during the festive season. Announcing the measures on Wednesday, Chief Minister V D Satheesan said the package is designed to ensure that families across the state can celebrate Onam without facing the burden of rising food prices. Of the total allocation, ₹273 crore has been earmarked for market intervention to stabilise the prices of essential commodities during the festive season. The government will distribute more than six lakh free Onam kits, each containing 16 essential food items, to yellow ration card holders and residents of welfare institutions. In addition, Onam mega trade fairs and special markets will be organised across districts, enabling consumers to purchase essential items at affordable prices.