Manikganj: Food Advisor Ali Imam Majumder announced that the current food stock has reached a historic high of 21.79 lakh tons, marking a significant milestone in the country’s food security measures. He expressed satisfaction with the current stock levels during a view exchange meeting at the Manikganj District Circuit House, organized by the Manikganj District Administration and the Department of Food.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Majumder emphasized the importance of maintaining a minimum safe stock of around 13.5 lakh tons to ensure food security and mitigate potential risks. The government has made advance preparations to address these concerns, he noted.
During the meeting, presided over by Deputy Commissioner Dr. Manwar Hossein Malla, Majumder announced the expansion of the government’s food-friendly programmes, set to commence on August 17. The initiative will now cover 55 lakh households, an increase of 5 lakh beneficiaries from previous years.
Each household will receive 30 kilograms of rice per month at a subsidized rate of Taka 15 per kilogram. This year, the programme will run for six months, compared to five months last year, with the first phase spanning from August to November and resuming in February and March after a two-month pause.
Majumder also revealed plans to distribute 10 lakh tons of rice under the programme this year. He stressed the importance of transparency and accountability in the implementation of the food-friendly programmes, warning that any irregularities or misconduct will be met with strict action.
The event was attended by Md Abdul Hasanat, Director General of the Directorate of Food, and Suraiya Khatun, Regional Food Controller of Dhaka Division, who were present as special guests.