Ensuring Food Security in J&K: LG administration expanded subsidized ration benefits
Jammu, Aug 4: As abrogation of Article 370 and 35-A from Jammu and Kashmir by Parliament completed four years, the Union Territory Administration has taken several people oriented policies which has benefitted a vast majority of the population in 20-districts of J&K since the region lost its special status.
Among these the announcement, providing 10 kg additional ration at subsidized rates under Prime Minister’s Food Supplementation Scheme for Priority households announced by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha is considered a gamechanger to end hunger from the Himalayan region.
It marks a significant milestone in the journey towards ensuring food security and improving the lives of vulnerable families. This forward-thinking initiative reflects a government that is attuned to the needs of its citizens and is willing to take bold steps to create a more inclusive and prosperous society.
Recognizing the importance of food security, this initiative will greatly alleviate the burden on economically disadvantaged families who often struggle to meet their basic nutritional needs. As per an estimate, the decision will benefit over 57 lakh people living in Union Territory in coming months.
As per the data, there are 2.29 lakh families which get 35 kg ration free of cost. For priority households (PHH), a five kg ration is given per person free of cost. If there are two persons in the family, then it is 10 kg, if three, then 15 kg.
The government has come up with a scheme – ‘PM’s food supplementation for priority households’ under which 10 kgs of rice will be provided additionally than the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana, to priority households at subsidised rates every month. This was revealed by LG himself during a press conference in Srinagar. As per the data, there are about 14.32 lakh ration card holders under the PHH, with 57.24 lakh beneficiaries.
The Prime Minister’s Food Supplementation Scheme for Priority Households is a pivotal component of the larger National Food Security Act, 2013. This scheme aims to alleviate hunger and malnutrition by providing essential food commodities to households that are most in need.
Under the visionary leadership of Lieutenant Governor, J&K has embraced this initiative, furthering its commitment to addressing food insecurity and promoting the overall well-being of its residents.
The announcement has been met with widespread appreciation, as it directly benefits the priority households. The decision to provide an additional 10 kg of ration at subsidized rates is poised to create a positive impact on the lives of countless families. This vital allocation of extra ration is expected to relieve financial burdens and ensure that vulnerable households have access to an adequate and nutritious food supply.
One of the key tenets of good governance is to ensure that no citizen is left behind. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha’s administration underscores the government’s commitment to fostering inclusivity and equity within the UT. By extending support to priority households, the administration is taking proactive measures to bridge socioeconomic gaps and promote a more equitable society where every resident has the opportunity to thrive.
