NFSA rice Quotas for May, June may be clubbed together
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, June 18 2016 :
Rice quotas for the months of May and June entitled to priority households listed under the National Food Security Act (NFSA) may be distributed together at one go or in quick succession.
Although NFSA was launched in the State in April this year, distribution of rice (allocated for April) to priority households is going on at present.
With distribution of rice for the month of April still going on, many beneficiaries are doubtful that their rice quotas for the months of May and June may be forfeited.
Nonetheless, an official source in the Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution Department informed that the department has been working to allocate NFSA rice quotas for the two consecutive months at one go or in quick succession.
Although NFSA was launched in Manipur in April, distribution of ration cards to priority households could not be completed in time.
This was one major factor for the delay in distribution of rice.
In accordance to district-wise allocation, the State Government has delivered NFSA rice to all the districts.
Subsequently, distribution of rice through Fair Price Shops is going on at present.
However, NFSA rice allocated to Ukhrul district for the month of April has not been delivered till date due to certain controversies.
Even as the State Government has deposited necessary amount with the FCI for lifting rice for the month of May, only about one-third of the total quantity has been lifted so far.
As distribution of rice for the month of April is still incomplete, district administrations are yet to deposit necessary amount for lifting rice for the month of May.
It is said that the Government would make district-wise allocation after district administrations deposit the necessary amounts.
The period for lifting rice for the month of May from FCI godowns had lapsed twice.
Nonetheless, the department has written to the FCI to extend the period of lifting rice and FCI is expected to give a new time period soon.
As for the rice quota for the month of June, not a single bag has been lifted so far.
As such, rice quotas for the months of May and June may be lifted and distributed to public at one go or in quick succession, added the source.