Union Minister of State for Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, Nimuben Jayantibhai Bambhaniya, praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership in providing free rations to 81 crore people in India, a number larger than Europe’s population. This initiative stands as the world’s largest food security program. During an event in Aizawl, Mizoram, the Minister acknowledged the state’s unique indigenous products and cultural heritage, emphasizing the importance of understanding and addressing Mizoram’s challenges.
Bambhaniya reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring food security for all, especially in Mizoram, by guaranteeing sufficient and quality food supplies. She commended Mizoram’s Food, Consumer Affairs and Civil Supplies Department for implementing beneficial systems like e-KYC, EPOS, and SMART PDS. Additionally, the Minister pledged support to Northeastern states by pre-allocating ration supplies for up to three months ahead of the monsoon season to mitigate disruptions caused by heavy rains.
The Minister promised to convey Mizoram’s concerns to Union CAF&PD Minister Pralhad Joshi and facilitate further discussions. The event, hosted by Mizoram’s Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs Department, aimed to showcase the challenges faced by the state and strengthen cooperation with the Central government. Mizoram’s Minister B. Lalchhanzova expressed gratitude for the Central government and the Food Corporation of India’s continuous support in ensuring a steady food supply to the state. He urged for an increase in Mizoram’s NFSA quota to bolster food security efforts and uphold the principle of “Food for All.”
