Chhattisgarh to launch Rs 3 Kg rice scheme
Raipur, Jan 15 (UNI) In an effort to ensure food security to the poor, the Chhattisgarh government will launch tomorrow its ambitious scheme to provide 35 Kg rice every month at Rs 3 per kilo to more than 34 lakh families living below the poverty line in the state.
''We have earmarked Rs 837 crore for the scheme that will cover all the BPL families'', Chief Minister Dr Raman Singh told newsmen today.
The BJP government, which completed four years in office, is all set to launch the scheme with much fanfare as top BJP leaders are scheduled to attend the programme in the districts tomorrow.
BJP President Rajnath Singh, Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi and chief ministers of other BJP ruled states are among those who would launch the scheme at the headquarters of different districts. Besides, they would also address public meetings in the respective districts.
Throwing light on the details of the scheme, the chief minister said the resources for implementing the ambitious scheme was mostly being met by the state government. He said the scheme would directly benefit BPL families belonging not only to the scheduled castes and scheduled tribes but also to those belonging to the general category.
Pointing out that his government would ensure that the benefits of the scheme percolated down to the poor, Mr Singh said steps have been initiated to supply sealed rice bags of 35 Kg, 10 Kg and five Kg.
''We have also decided to invoke provisions of the Essential Commodities Act against those misusing the rice meant for the poor'', he said.
Special arrangements have been made to crack down on those indulging in any irregularities and malpractices. A toll free telephone number has been activated so that the people could register their complaints, he said, adding arrangements have also been made to closely monitor implementation of the scheme.
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