Mandya district minister N Cheluvarayaswamy delivered a powerful message on the immense value of food and the nation's hard-won self-reliance during a public event on Friday. Speaking at the inauguration of National Consumer Day 2025 and an awareness program on Food Safety and Legal Rights, the minister urged every citizen to recognize the true worth of food grains in today's world.
From Scarcity to Surplus: India's Food Journey
The minister took the audience on a historical journey, recalling a period three to four decades ago when India grappled with severe food shortages. Cheluvarayaswamy credited sustained policy initiatives and reforms for transforming the country from a state of deficit to becoming not just self-reliant but also a notable exporter of food grains. The event, held at Dr BR Ambedkar Bhavan, was organized by the District Consumer Information Centre under the theme ‘Effective and Speedy Disposal through Digital Justice’.
Pillars of Food Security: Central and State Initiatives
Detailing the structural framework ensuring food access, the minister highlighted the establishment of the Food Commission during former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's tenure. This was followed by the implementation of the Food Security Act, a landmark legislation designed to supply quality food at affordable prices to the poor and vulnerable sections of society.
Further bolstering these efforts, Cheluvarayaswamy pointed to the enhancement made by the Karnataka government. While the Union government's scheme initially provided 5 kg of food grains per person, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah increased this allocation to 10 kg of rice for the state. This augmentation is a key step in the mission to make Karnataka a hunger-free state, the minister stated.
Addressing Grievances and Ensuring Quality
The minister directly addressed public concerns, assuring that issues related to cancelled ration cards are being actively rectified. He encouraged citizens to report any irregularities they encounter in the system. Striking a stern note, Cheluvarayaswamy warned of strict action against anyone found compromising food quality. This vigilance extends to critical programs like school mid-day meals, where quality standards are non-negotiable.
Echoing the minister's focus on consumer protection, H Krishna, Chairman of the Karnataka State Food Commission, emphasized ongoing efforts to shield consumers from being cheated. He stressed the indispensable need for greater public awareness of consumer laws to empower citizens and ensure justice.
