look news india
Guwahati, 15 December (Hindustan Reporter). Chief Minister Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma launched the first phase of distribution of new ration cards in 49 new assembly constituencies under the National Food Security Act (NSSA) at a program organized at Sarusajai Sports Complex on Sunday. On the occasion, he distributed ration cards to 14,328 beneficiaries of 4,535 families of No. 36 Guwahati Central Assembly Constituency and 16,411 beneficiaries of 4,759 families of No. 37 Jalukbari Assembly Constituency.
In the program, the Chief Minister reiterated the commitment of the state government to provide rice to the poor regularly. He informed that NFSA was implemented in Assam in December 2015, providing nutritional security to about 2.51 crore beneficiaries. He said that 85% of the residents of rural areas and 60% of urban areas have the right to a ration card. After linking ration cards with Aadhaar, 60 lakh new cards have been issued, making distribution of free rice possible through biometric verification.
*42.85 lakh new beneficiaries included in 2023-24*
The Chief Minister informed that in the financial year 2023-24, ration cards have been issued to 10.73 lakh new families, benefiting 52 lakh people. He informed that the state cabinet has decided to issue 20 lakh new ration cards, out of which seven lakh individuals will be distributed in 49 areas from today.
*Benefits of health and other schemes*
The Chief Minister said that ration card holders will be entitled for free treatment up to Rs 5 lakh in government hospitals under the Ayushman Bharat and Ayushman Assam schemes. He also informed that under the Ujjwala scheme, ration card holders can also get cooking gas.
*Expansion in Arunodaya Yojana*
The Chief Minister also discussed the expansion of Arunodaya Yojana, which will add 8,000 to 10,000 new families in each area. He appealed to the people to participate in the meetings organized at the village level, so that they can get involved in the scheme.
Food, Public Distribution and Consumer Affairs Minister Kaushik Rai, Rajya Sabha MP Bhuvneshwar Kalita, MLA Ramendra Narayan Kalita, Guwahati Municipal Corporation Mayor Mrigen Sarnia and other dignitaries were present at the event.
The Chief Minister committed to end corruption and favoritism and said the government is determined to ensure transparent and fair service delivery.
