CM ensures uninterrupted supply of food grains to beneficiaries

Pioneer News Service, Ranchi

Chief Minister Hemant Soren today conducted a high-level review of the latest progress of the Food, Public Distribution, and Consumer Affairs Department at the Jharkhand Secretariat. The Chief Minister told officials that continuous progress in the welfare schemes operated by the department, transparency in food grain distribution, and the effective implementation of upcoming financial plans are the priorities of the State Government.

The State Government’s objective is to find ways to uplift the standard of living of the state’s residents. He stated that to make the food distribution system completely transparent, accountable, and accessible to the public, it is essential to integrate modern technology and innovation into the operation of these schemes. The schemes administered by the State Government’s Food, Public Distribution, and Consumer Affairs Department are not only fulfilling the basic needs of the residents but are also making significant contributions toward poverty alleviation, social equity, and self-reliance. Dr. Irfan Ansari, Minister of the Food, Public Distribution, and Consumer Affairs Department, was present at the meeting.

During a detailed review of the Public Distribution System (PDS), ration card distribution, food grain supply, consumer protection, as well as the implementation, achievements, future action plans, and set targets of the department’s various schemes, the Chief Minister emphasized the effective execution of departmental schemes and public welfare programs.

Chief Minister Hemant Soren stated that the Public Distribution System serves as a lifeline for poor and needy families; therefore, there must be absolutely no laxity in its operation. He directed that a time-bound, transparent, and uninterrupted supply of food grains be ensured for all eligible beneficiaries across the state.

He further directed that matters related to ration cards be resolved expeditiously, that newly eligible families be enrolled in the schemes, and that ineligible beneficiaries be identified to make the entire system even more transparent.

The Chief Minister issued instructions to ensure transparency and accountability within the food grain distribution system by strengthening the technology-based monitoring mechanism.

Currently, 370 centers are being operated under the ‘Mukhyamantri Dal Bhat Yojana’ (Chief Minister’s Dal Bhat Scheme). Under this initiative, people are provided with a full meal in exchange for a nominal payment of ₹5. The Chief Minister instructed officials to increase the number of these ‘Dal Bhat’ centers. Identify suitable locations within the state to establish ‘Dal-Bhat’ (Lentil-Rice) centers for urban workers. Additionally, set up model Dal-Bhat centers to ensure that needy individuals have access to a full, wholesome meal.

While reviewing the Special Tribal Food Security Scheme (PVTG Dakia Scheme), the Chief Minister directed that it be ensured that all PVTG families continue to receive their food grain entitlements through the doorstep delivery mechanism. During the review, the Chief Minister noted that against a target of 60 lakh quintals, 49 lakh 25 thousand quintals of paddy had been procured in Jharkhand.