Jhansi: Minister for Food and Civil Supplies Manoj Kumar Pandey stated that the government is dedicated to reaching the underprivileged and ensuring that welfare schemes benefit every eligible citizen. Speaking at a beneficiary conference and 'Jan Chaupal' organized at Raksa Gram Panchayat in Babina block of Sadar tehsil on Saturday evening, the minister emphasized that the primary objective of such public interaction programs is to enhance the effectiveness and accessibility of government welfare schemes.
Free Food Grains Distribution
Pandey highlighted that since the COVID-19 pandemic, free food grains have been distributed to nearly 80 crore people, helping families secure their livelihoods and ensuring adequate nutrition. He added that around 16 crore beneficiaries in the state are currently receiving free food grains through the Food and Civil Supplies Department.
Social Welfare Initiatives
Emphasizing the government's commitment to social welfare, Pandey said that eligible families are being provided benefits under various schemes, including housing, drinking water supply, toilets, and pensions. He also informed beneficiaries that Annapurna Bhawans have been established to ensure a clean and convenient food grain distribution system for ration card holders. Additionally, fair price shop dealers have been directed to arrange safe drinking water for consumers during the summer season.
Interaction with Beneficiaries
During the conference, the minister interacted with beneficiaries and provided information about key welfare programs, including the National Food Security Scheme and the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana. Beneficiaries shared their experiences, stating that the introduction of e-weighing linked POS machines has ensured they receive their full entitlement of free food grains, significantly improving their livelihood and family health.
Ujjwala Yojana Benefits
Beneficiaries of the Ujjwala scheme noted that earlier they had to cook on traditional wood-fired stoves, which adversely affected their health. The availability of LPG connections under the scheme has improved their quality of life and reduced health risks.
On the occasion, the minister distributed ration cards and LPG connections to 10 eligible families.
