Civil Supplies confirms PDS rice is free
Following reports that some Fair Price Shops (FPS) in Mokokchung town have been allegedly charging money for rice, MT contacted Jamonger Ao, Assistant Director of Food & Civil Supplies, Mokokchung, for clarification. He confirmed that rice distributed under the Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) and Priority Household (PHH) schemes is free of cost.
Speaking to MT, Jamonger Ao said, “The AAY and PHH scheme foodgrains under the National Food Security Act is free of cost and there are no charges.” He added that any FPS found levying money illegally will be penalised under the relevant government Acts.
He also urged beneficiaries and the public to report any unauthorized charges to the office of the District Civil Supply Officer, Food & Civil Supplies Department, Mokokchung, so that necessary action can be taken.
Clarifying the scope of the Public Distribution System (PDS) in the district, the department stated that only AAY and PHH schemes are implemented in the state, and rice should be provided free of cost to all eligible beneficiaries, with no legal provisions for charging fees under these schemes.
Under the AAY, the poorest of the poor families are provided 35 kg of rice per month free of cost, while under the PHH scheme, eligible households receive 5 kg per person per month at no charge. Both schemes are implemented under the National Food Security Act (NFSA).