Kerala to supply ration grains at doorstep

Ahead of the implementation of Food Security Act in 2017, Kerala government has decided to launch a pilot project to supply ration items at the doorsteps beginning from 1 November. 

Initially, the project will be implemented in Kollam district. The plan is to provide grains and other provisions supplied through Public Distribution System at the doorstep of beneficiaries, Food and Civil Supplies Minister P Thilothaman said. The government plans to extend the project across the state by April 2017. 

An initial list of beneficiaries will be published by January 2016, and the final draft list will be issued by October 2017. The government will begin distribution of new ration cards by February and expects to complete the process by March 2017, an official press release said. Ration card holders coming under Below Poverty Line (BPL) and Antyodaya Anna Yojana category will benefit from the scheme. 

The Central Government implemented Food Security Act, 2013, with the aim to ensure food and nutritional security to people by ensuring access to quality food at affordable price.

The United Democratic Front (UDF) government, which was in power in Kerala until May 2016, had voiced concern as it felt that a large section of people who are benefiting from the rationing system would be thrown out of the beneficiary list once the Act is implemented.

However, Centre assured that existing grain quota would not be altered, and all persons coming under Above Poverty line (APL), and BPL would be eligible for all benefits they are enjoying. It was after getting this assurance that Kerala government decided to implement the Act. 

• Food Security Act
• Ration food
• ration grains at doorstep