Food Corporation of India supplies 4 lakh MT food grains during lockdown
STAFF REPORTER
GUWAHATI: The Government of India in its fight against the COVID pandemic has been providing free food grains under the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Ann Yojana (PMGKAY). Under the scheme, about 120 lakh MT food grains are being distributed among the vulnerable sections of society who have been affected by the pandemic. Around 1.25 Lac MT of rice per month has been allotted for Assam for three months from April to June 20, which will be distributed free of cost to 2.49 crore NFSA beneficiaries.
The Food Corporation of India, Assam region has issued 1.75 lakh MT food grains valued at Rs. 683 crores to the Assam government under the PMGKAY scheme till May 7. During, the same period, 1.34 lakh MT food grains have also been issued to the State government under NFSA.
A press release issued by the FCI, Assam region states that the total quantity of food grains supplied by FCI, Assam region in the State during the lockdown period for distribution under various schemes is about 4 lakh MT. To reach the poor migrant labour/vulnerable group during the lockdown period, FCI is encouraging the NGOs/charitable organizations to purchase rice/wheat at Rs. 22/21 respectively for undertaking relief operations among the groups.
The release further says, "While taking care of the needy people through regular supply of food grains, equal attention is being given to protect the interests of farmers also by undertaking procurement of paddy in the State during the ongoing Kharif Marketing Season 2019-20. Till May 6, a quantity of 1.5 lakh MT Paddy (Common) has been procured for the central pool from more than 10,000 farmers of Assam at the minimum support price of Rs. 1,815 per quintal. For the 2nd crop (Bodo) of KMS 2019-20, a target of 1 LMT paddy has been kept."