Ampati, Feb 20: The Office of the Deputy Commissioner (Supply), South West Garo Hills District, in collaboration with the Meghalaya State Food Commission, Shillong, organised a Regional Camp at Ampati to strengthen implementation of the National Food Security Act (NFSA).
The programme began with a welcome address by Smt. AnendyaRaajsshre, IAS, Deputy Commissioner, South West Garo Hills, followed by felicitation of dignitaries.
Meghalay State Food Commission, Chairman Shri D.P. Wahlang, IAS (Retd.), reiterated that the Commission’s core mandate is to ensure no eligible person is denied food. He informed that this is the second regional camp of the financial year, with another scheduled in Shillong next month.
The Commission oversees implementation of food security schemes through the Food & Civil Supplies, Education and Social Welfare Departments. Under the ration system, Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) households receive 35 kg of food grains per month, while Priority Households receive 5 kg per person free of cost.
He emphasised maintaining quality and quantity of food grains distributed through Fair Price Shops and urged beneficiaries to report grievances to the District Grievance Redressal Committee, which may be escalated to the Commission if unresolved.
Under the PM POSHAN scheme, regular and free Mid-Day Meals in schools were stressed, along with the promotion of kitchen gardens. Supplementary nutrition through Anganwadi Centres for children, pregnant women and lactating mothers was also highlighted to address anemia and child stunting. The Chairman underscored the importance of last-mile governance to ensure benefits reach remote areas.
Meghalaya State Food Commissioner, Member Secretary Shri I. W. Ingty, IAS (Retd.) stated that the Commission monitors implementation of the Act, investigates violations, hears appeals against District Grievance Redressal Officers and has powers equivalent to a civil court while inquiring into complaints.
Officials informed that under TPDS, 70,198 AAY households and 3,51,358 Priority Household beneficiaries are covered in Meghalaya. The ICDS and Supplementary Nutrition Programme benefit over 4.27 lakh children and thousands of mothers and adolescent girls, while the PM POSHAN Scheme covers 11,078 schools across the State.
Presentations were made by officials from Ampati, Tura, Williamnagar, Baghmara, Resubelpara and Daddengre on E-KYC compliance, NFSA implementation, supply chain management, ration card services and PDS entitlements.
A cultural performance of Wangala Dance by the Ampati A’chik Cultural Society added colour to the event. An award was also presented to the Best Performing Fair Price Shop dealer. The programme concluded with a Vote of Thanks, reaffirming the State’s commitment to ensuring that no eligible citizen is denied food.
