State Govt reintroduces lentils in “public distribution”, launches crackdown on black marketing

By  Firstdespatch Desk   Aug 04, 2023

Agartala, Aug 04 (FD) In a bid to enhance citizens' quality of life, the state government has launched a pioneering initiative to reintroduce lentils into the public distribution system.

The Minister for Food and Civil Supplies, Sushanta Chowdhury, announced this big initiative with the goal of reducing the burden on the public by making basic food goods available at reasonable costs.

Minister Chowdhury announced that a substantial 1,300 metric tons of lentils have arrived in the state, marking a major step towards equitable distribution. The lentils will be made available through government fair-price shops and Anganwadi centers, benefiting a wide cross-section of consumers. Those falling under the Above Poverty Line (APL) category can now access lentils at a reduced cost of Rs 82 per kg, down from Rs 84. Similarly, Below the Poverty Line (BPL) and Antyodaya consumers will see the price drop to Rs 57 per kg from Rs 59.

The government's resolute stance against the scourge of black marketing resonated strongly in Chowdhury's address. Employing rigorous measures, the food department has orchestrated a series of raids over the past three months, yielding fines exceeding Rs 3 lakh. Notably, the crackdown has led to the permanent closure of 10 rogue establishments and the revocation of licences from five ration shops.

Chowdhury's resounding assurance resonated with the populace as he reaffirmed the state's unwavering commitment to safeguarding essential commodity stocks and ensuring stability and accessibility.

The press conference, graced by key figures including Secretary of the Department of Transport UK Chakma and Director of the Food Department Nirmal Adhikari, exemplified the government's pro-activeness towards uplifting citizens' quality of life. FD SB JK