Manikganj: Food Adviser Ali Imam Majumdar has announced that starting August 17, 55 lakh families in Bangladesh will receive 30 kg of rice per month at a price of Taka 15 per kg as part of the Food-Friendly Programme (FFP). This initiative marks an increase in the number of beneficiaries from the previous 50 lakh to 55 lakh families.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the announcement was made during a views-exchange meeting with the district administration and local officials of the Directorate of Food at Circuit House in Manikganj. The food adviser explained that the Boro season’s paddy and rice collection programme would conclude on August 14, paving the way for the FFP to commence shortly after.
The FFP is set to run for six months this year, up from five months in the previous year. The first phase will operate for four months from August to November, with a two-month suspension in December and January. The programme will then resume for an additional two months from February to March. This year, a total of 10 lakh metric tons of rice will be distributed under the programme.
Ali Imam Majumdar expressed satisfaction with the verification process for the 54,757 approved beneficiaries of the FFP in Manikganj district, which has now been finalized. He emphasized the necessity for regular monitoring to ensure beneficiaries receive the specified amount of rice promptly and at the correct price, warning that any irregularities will result in strict action against those responsible.
He also noted that the current food stock in the country is at a historically high level, with 21,79,633 metric tons available. He highlighted the importance of maintaining a safe food stock level of at least 13.5 lakh metric tons and mentioned that the government has taken proactive steps to ensure food security, particularly in light of potential flooding.
The food adviser instructed officials to ensure the safety of food warehouses. During the meeting, it was revealed that 25 percent of Manikganj district consists of char areas prone to early flooding, with 65 percent of the land being low-lying. The district is known for producing fine rice and various vegetables, including almonds and carrots.
The meeting was chaired by Manikganj Deputy Commissioner Dr. Manwar Hossain Mollah, with the Director General of the Directorate General of Food, Md. Abul Hasanat Humayun Kabir, and other officials in attendance.