Aalo, Aug 25: A review meeting of the Arunachal Pradesh State Food Commission was held here on Tuesday under the chairmanship of Tarh Tarak, Chairman, Arunachal Pradesh State Food Commission, along with members Maji Chokar and Ngasha Tangjang.

Addressing the gathering, Tarak highlighted the importance of the Arunachal Pradesh State Food Commission and the effective implementation of the National Food Security Act (NFSA) in the state. He informed that the Commission is visiting all districts of Arunachal Pradesh to collect ground-level information, review the implementation of food security programmes and submit its findings to the State Government.

The Chairman stated that the Commission is also focusing on checking food adulteration and ensuring that the concerned departments are implementing the guidelines issued by the Government. He emphasized the need for establishing two food testing centres, one each in Arunachal East and Arunachal West, for effective monitoring of food quality. He further suggested that portable food testing kits should be made available at all Anganwadi Centres to facilitate regular testing and awareness regarding food safety.

Ngasah Tangjang, gave an overview of the evolution of the Public Distribution System (PDS) and highlighted various provisions of the National Food Security Act. He urged all line departments of West Siang district to strictly adhere to the guidelines issued by the Government for effective implementation of NFSA-related schemes.

During the meeting, Minli Tato, DFCSO, apprised the Chairman of the difficulties being faced by the people of Liromoba and Yomcha areas due to the non-existence of PDS godowns in these remote areas, which are located far from the district headquarters. He also highlighted the provisions relating to Priority Household (PHH) and Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) beneficiaries under NFSA, under which eligible beneficiaries receive highly subsidized foodgrains.

The Deputy Director, ICDS, informed the Commission that foodgrains are received by the department on a quarterly basis. She also highlighted the challenges associated with transportation charges and requested suitable measures to address the issue.

DDSE Hengam Ete Bagra briefed the Commission on the implementation of PM POSHAN in West Siang district. She highlighted the difficulties faced by schools in the preparation of mid-day meals and emphasised the need for adequate kitchen utensils and food testing kits to ensure hygienic and quality food for students.

The DRCHO also apprised the Chairman of the issues faced by ASHA workers and requested enhancement of their honorarium under the JSS to motivate and encourage them in the effective discharge of their duties.

Member Maji Chokar, interacted with representatives of various line departments and discussed issues related to the implementation of NFSA. He urged the departments to bring unresolved issues and challenges to the notice of the State Food Commission for appropriate action.

Mabi Taipodia Jini, ADC-cum-DGRO, apprised the Chairman of various complaints and grievances received from members of the public in West Siang district.

Mindo Loyi, Deputy Commissioner, West Siang, urged all line departments to strictly adhere to the guidelines issued by the Government and ensure effective implementation of food security-related schemes. He further directed the departments to submit their various issues and concerns to the District Administration for necessary follow-up and appropriate action.

The meeting provided an important platform for the State Food Commission and district-level departments to review the implementation of food security schemes, identify challenges at the grassroots level and discuss measures for improving the delivery of benefits to the people.

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Kenter Joya Riba

(Managing Editor)
      She is a graduate in Science with post graduation in Sociology from University of Pune. She has been in the media industry for nearly a decade. Before turning to print business, she has been associated with radio and television.
Email: kenterjoyaz@easternsentinel.in / editoreasternsentinel@gmail.com
Phone: 0360-2212313

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