AALO, AUG 25:
The Arunachal Pradesh State Food Commission (SFC) held a review meeting at the Deputy Commissioner’s Conference Hall in Aalo on Tuesday to assess the implementation of the National Food Security Act (NFSA) and related food security schemes in West Siang district.
The meeting was chaired by SFC Chairman Tarh Tarak and attended by members Maji Chokar and Ngasah Tangjang.
Addressing the meeting, Tarak said the Commission was visiting all districts to gather ground-level information, review the implementation of food security programmes and submit its findings to the State Government. He stressed the need for effective implementation of the NFSA and stronger monitoring of food quality and food adulteration.
Tarak called for the establishment of two food testing centres, one each in Arunachal East and Arunachal West, and suggested making portable food-testing kits available at Anganwadi Centres to facilitate regular testing and promote food-safety awareness.
SFC member Ngasah Tangjang outlined the evolution of the Public Distribution System (PDS) and key provisions of the NFSA. He urged line departments to strictly adhere to government guidelines for effective implementation of food security schemes.
During the meeting, District Food and Civil Supplies Officer Minli Tato highlighted difficulties faced by residents of Liromoba and Yomcha due to the absence of PDS godowns in the remote areas. He also explained provisions relating to Priority Household (PHH) and Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) beneficiaries, who are entitled to subsidised foodgrains.
Officials from the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) and education departments highlighted challenges related to transportation of foodgrains, kitchen facilities and food-testing arrangements.
West Siang District Deputy Director of School Education Hengam Ete Bagra briefed the Commission on the implementation of PM POSHAN and stressed the need for adequate kitchen utensils and food-testing kits to ensure hygienic and quality meals for students.
The District Reproductive and Child Health Officer (DRCHO) raised issues concerning ASHA workers and sought enhancement of their honorarium under the Janani Suraksha Yojana (JSY).
SFC member Maji Chokar interacted with representatives of various line departments and urged them to bring unresolved issues to the Commission’s notice for appropriate action.
Additional Deputy Commissioner-cum-District Grievance Redressal Officer Mabi Taipodia Jini also apprised the Commission of public complaints and grievances received in the district.
West Siang DC Mindo Loyi directed all line departments to comply with government guidelines and ensure effective implementation of food security schemes. He asked the departments to submit their concerns to the District Administration for necessary follow-up.
The meeting provided a platform to review the implementation of food security programmes, identify grassroots-level challenges and discuss measures to improve delivery of benefits to the people. (DIPR)
