Transport, Food & Civil Supplies Minister G.S. Bali said that the food storage capacity of the State would be increased upto 25,000 metric tonnes during next two years to ensure regular distribution of foodgrains under Public Distribution System.
He was presiding over a review meeting with officials of Food Corporation of India (FCI) at Nagrota Bagwan in Kangra district today. He said that Electronic Ration Card Scheme was being implemented in Kangra district on pilot basis which would enable the consumers to purchase ration from any government depot. He said that shops would be opened at all major bus stands of the State to facilitate the passengers under PPP mode.
Bali urged the FCI and Civil Supplies to work in coordination to ensure maximum benefit of Central and State schemes to the common man. He also requested the FCI to open Gas Agencies in rural areas of the State and also to increase the quota kerosene oil.
The Minister assured that the FCI godown at Nagrota Bagwan would soon be handed over to the Civil Supplies as per the demand of local people. He also assured, for early release of grant to Hill Road Transport of Bara Bhangal area of Kangra district. He said that 10 acre land would be provided for construction of foodgrains store at Nagrota within ten days.
Sudhir Garg, Joint Secretary, FCI expressed satisfaction over the PDS system in the State and added that it was far better and transparent in comparison to other States. He said that Himachal Pradesh was leading State in distributing foodgrains to the people above poverty line.
