CAG surprised over higher BPL cards than beneficiaries

Gandhinagar, Mar 30 (UNI) The Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) hascriticised the Gujarat Government for its failure in distribution of foodgrains to the poor.

In its latest report, laid in the Gujarat assembly today, the CAG was surprised over the higher number of BPL cards issued by the state government. It noted as against 21.20 lakh BPL families identified, around 35.34 lakh ration cards were issued, nearly 66 percent excess cards.

The state government did not constitute Vigilance Committees at state, district, taluka and FPS level under the provisions of PDS (control) order, 2001.

The report said the scales of supplies prescribed by the Union Government were not adhered and fair price shops did not function as per instructions of the government.

The report also noted diversion of foodgrains stocks from one scheme to another by the Gujarat state civil supplies corporation limited, resulting in loss of Rs 26.85 crore to the Union Government and Rs 21.20 crore to Gujarat Government.

The CAG wanted BPL and Antyodaya Anna Yojana beneficiaries to be reviewed and updated on periodic basis.

UNI