Foodgrain Banks for BPL families in UP

Lucknow, Jan 8 (UNI) To tide over foodgrains shortage in certain areas of Uttar Pradesh, the state government has decided to start a 'Rural Foodgrains Bank Scheme' from January 20 in select districts.

A decision to this effect was taken at a meeting chaired by state food commissioner Anup Chandra Pandey here last week.

The concerned district supply officers have already been issued necessary directives in this regard, official sources today said.

Under the scheme, foodgrain banks will be established in the selected villages falling under impoverished Bundelkhand region and naxal-infested districts in eastern UP.

These banks are aimed at providing food security to extremely poor families and individuals covered by the below poverty line (BPL) Segment.

A total of 13 districts have been selected for the 'Rural Foodgrains Bank Scheme'.

The respective districts supply officers have been directed to complete the process of identification of villages to be covered under the scheme.

Besides, the gram panchayats of these 13 districts will be involved in the process of selection of a suitable place to set up these banks.

Mr Pandey has issued stern directives to the officials to complete all formalities for setting up the rural foodgrain banks, so that they start functioning by January 20, sources added.

UNI