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Guwahati, Nov 10 (IANS) Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Monday launched the state government’s new food security scheme, which aims to make essential commodities affordable for millions of families across the state. Government officials gave this information.
The initiative, which officially came into effect from Monday, will ensure that beneficiaries under the National Food Security Act (NFSA) get staple food items – pulses, sugar and salt – at highly subsidized prices through the state’s network of fair price shops.
Speaking at the launch event in Guwahati, Chief Minister Sarma said the new scheme represents a major step in the government’s commitment to ensure food security and reduce financial pressure on low-income families.
“From today, through the Assam Fair Price Shop Scheme, we will provide one kg pulses, one kg sugar and one kg salt at very affordable prices to more than 70 lakh families in Assam. These three essential commodities will be available for purchase for only around Rs 100. This is the first time that such a scheme has been launched in Assam, and I thank the people of Assam for their support.”
Under the scheme, pulses (masoor dal) will be made available at Rs 69 per kg, sugar at Rs 38 per kg and salt at Rs 10 per kg – much lower than the current market rates.
The commodities will be distributed through all fair price shops across Assam, ensuring easy access for families already covered under NFSA.
Officials said the initiative is expected to benefit more than 70 lakh families, leading to substantial savings and helping improve nutrition levels among the economically weaker sections.
The scheme is also part of a broader effort to strengthen the state’s public distribution system and ensure last mile delivery of essential commodities.
Emphasizing the social impact of the move, CM Sarma said the government is focused on empowering vulnerable families and addressing rising food costs.
“This scheme will reduce the burden on household budgets and ensure that no family in Assam has to struggle to purchase basic food items,” he said.
The launch event was attended by senior ministers, officials and representatives of various districts connected through video conference.
–IANS
TDR/KHz