MP Govt serious for stopping black marketing of kersosene

Bhopal, Dec 21 (UNI) Madhya Pradesh Food and Civil Supplies Minister Akhand Pratap Singh today said the government was serious about taking strict measures to stop black marketing of kerosene.

Mr Singh told reporters here today that most petrol pump owners had wholesale dealership of kerosene. This gave strength to adulteration and black marketing.

He said 4,100 inspections had been carried out at various petrol pumps and 111 cases registered in this view in the first six months of 2007-08. A seizure of materials worth Rs 2.5 crore was made.

''Efforts are being made to develop electronic ration card and electronic coupon system so that kerosene and food distribution can take place in a better way,'' Mr Singh said, adding that the government was committed to bring transparency to the Public Distribution System.

He said an expenditure of Rs 44 crore was estimated in this under-consideration scheme.

Replying to a question, he alleged that the government was providing less foodgrains to Madhya Pradesh as a part of well-planned strategy.

However, the government was making efforts to provide foodgrains to people at minimum cost.

The Backward Section and Minorities Welfare Minister said scholarship had been provided to tribal students as per their merits.

Several steps had been taken for betterment of Muslims and 3,851 pilgrims were sent for 'Haj' against 3,742 pilgrims last year.

UNI