Begin typing your search above and press return to search.

2.51 crore people in Assam covered under Food Security Act: Minister

By Correspondent

JALUKBARI, Aug 22 - Under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Centre desires that the north-eastern states should develop and the general public should get more benefits from the schemes and facilities offered by it. Union Minister of State for Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution (MOCAF and PD) Raosaheb Patil Danve said this while addressing the media at a city hotel today.

The Minister, while briefing the media, said, �After winning the 2019 general elections and after we assumed our respective offices, we were directed by the Prime Minister that every minister will have to visit the North East and take stock of the situation of their respective departments. As per the directive, our department carried out an analysis, talked about the future problems and how we can overcome those problems.�

Danve further stated that out of Assam�s total population of 3.12 crore (as per 2011 census), 2.51 crore is covered under NFSA (National Food Security Act). Every month, 1,40,000 metric tonnes of foodgrain are issued by the Food Corporation of India (FCI) to Assam.

He went on to add that a meeting was held with Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal in which they discussed many issues and it was suggested to the State government to increase their storage capacity. This would also reduce the pressure on FCI�s storage capacity. The State government has also been asked to develop more godowns of the Assam State Warehousing Corporation for storage of foodgrain. The State government has also been asked to form a civil supplies corporation like other states, he informed.

Danve further said, �Assam is the only State in which foodgrains are lifted by FPS directly from FCI godown. This will be an additional burden on the system of FCI. With the formation of the State corporation, the State�s storage capacity will increase and better monitoring can be achieved under NFSA.�

He informed that 12 godowns of the Central Warehousing Corporation are currently available in the North East. Construction of godowns on government land is under consideration of the government, which was also discussed with the Chief Minister.

Next Story