The food and civil supplies department of Jharkhand is considering replacing palm oil with mustard oil in the public distribution system (PDS) to enhance the nutritional quality of items provided to beneficiaries. Food and civil supplies minister Irfan Ansari stated that mustard oil is widely used in the state and is a healthier alternative to palm oil. The proposal is currently in the discussion stage, with authorities evaluating pricing, availability, and supply logistics before making a final decision.
Beneficiaries and Cost Implications
If approved, the change would benefit 2.69 crore PDS beneficiaries across the state. Ansari mentioned that the government is considering supplying one litre of mustard oil per month to each beneficiary. The state would need to spend approximately Rs 900 crore annually to implement the plan.
Health Concerns with Palm Oil
Ansari, who also serves as the health minister, claimed that the current distribution of palm oil is causing heart, liver, and kidney ailments. He stated that replacing palm oil with mustard oil would benefit lakhs of families who depend on PDS. Currently, beneficiaries receive various types of rice, dal, salt, sugar, chana (gram), and oil under the PDS.
Funding Challenges
The minister acknowledged that funding remains a concern as the state does not have the required budget. He plans to visit Delhi soon to discuss the issue with the central government and seek central assistance to carry out the change.
Potential Boost to Local Farmers
Sources indicate that the proposed shift could also support local farmers if mustard procurement is increased to meet demand, potentially strengthening the rural economy.
