Karam Shyam clarifies on irregularities of rice distribution
Source: The Sangai Express / DIPR
Imphal, June 19 2019:
CAF&PD Minister Karam Shyam has conveyed that the State Government makes sure that the distribution of rice to the 60 ACs of Manipur is done on a regular basis through Fair Price Shops (FPS) and that the whole record and utilization certificate of distribution, are well-maintained.
He made the clarification during a press conference at his Old Secretariat office in connection with the claims made by Khurai Kendra MLA L Susindro Meitei on various TV channels on the June 17 that he had already taken 6 months worth of rice for 2017-18 and 2018 -19 and no positive actions have been undertaken even after registering a police complaint by the public.
The Minister also assured that he sincerely feels that NFSA rice items should reach the hand of the deserving citizens of the State and as such, necessary action will be taken up to nab those responsible in case of any leakage, with the help of Pradhans, Zilla Parishads and Councillors.
Talking to media persons, K Shyam explained that the Government made sincere efforts to clear the public dues with a huge sum of Rs 24 crore they received as subsidies from the Centre in 2017-18 and Rs 19 crore and another 5 crore in 2018 and 2019 respectively.
At present, a maximum of 87 percent foodgrains are distributed to the public, he added.
The Minister further elaborated that they had requested the Central Government to review the pending process in the distribution of the Welfare Institute of Hostel Scheme due to the recent election Model Code of Conduct and communication lapse.
Stating that the scarcity of local foodgrains is mainly due to floods and insecticides attack, he said that such grains are not priced below Rs 40 in any State of the country.
They are mostly sold in the price range of Rs 40-50 in the market, he said.
The Minister also assured that they will pressure the Centre to make the food grains available at minimum support rates (i.e.Rs 24.76 per kg) after discussion with related officials and work towards minimizing the burden on the public.
CAF&PD Commissioner Bobby Waikhom, Director Ranjan Yumnam and other officials were also present at the press conference.