What New Food Security Scheme Did Assam CM Launch?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
In a significant move to support low-income families, Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma has unveiled a new Food Security Scheme that promises to provide essential commodities at subsidized rates. This initiative aims to alleviate financial burdens and enhance nutrition for millions across the state.
Key Takeaways
- Food Security Initiative: Aims to provide essential items at reduced prices.
- Target Audience: Over 70 lakh families in Assam.
- Affordable Pricing: Commodities available for around Rs 100.
- Market Comparison: Prices significantly lower than current market rates.
- Public Distribution System: Strengthening access to essential goods.
Guwahati, Nov 10 (NationPress) Assam's Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma inaugurated the state government’s latest Food Security Scheme on Monday, designed to make essential goods accessible at reduced prices for millions of families in Assam, according to government officials.
This initiative, which officially commenced on Monday, aims to ensure that recipients of the National Food Security Act (NFSA) can purchase vital food items — lentils, sugar, and salt — at significantly subsidized rates through the state’s network of fair price shops.
During the launch event in Guwahati, Chief Minister Sarma stated that the new scheme marks a substantial advance in the government’s efforts to guarantee food security and alleviate financial strain on lower-income families.
“Starting today, through the Assam Fair Price Shop scheme, we will furnish one kg of lentils, one kg of sugar, and one kg of salt to over 70 lakh families in Assam for remarkably low prices. These three essential items will be available for just about Rs 100. This is the inaugural instance of such a scheme in Assam, and I express my gratitude to the people of Assam for their support,” the Chief Minister remarked.
Under this scheme, lentils (masoor dal) will be priced at Rs 69 per kg, sugar at Rs 38 per kg, and salt at Rs 10 per kg — all significantly lower than current market prices.
The distribution of these commodities will take place through all fair price shops throughout Assam, ensuring that families enrolled under the NFSA can easily access them.
Officials have indicated that the scheme is anticipated to assist more than 70 lakh households, leading to considerable savings and enhancing nutritional standards among economically disadvantaged groups.
This initiative is also part of the state's broader strategy to bolster its public distribution system and guarantee effective delivery of essential items.
Highlighting the social significance of the scheme, CM Sarma reiterated that the government is dedicated to empowering vulnerable families and tackling escalating food prices.
“This scheme will lighten the financial load on household budgets and ensure that no family in Assam has to struggle to afford fundamental food items,” he emphasized.
The launch event was attended by senior ministers, officials, and district representatives connected through video conferencing.
Point of View
The launch of Assam's Food Security Scheme represents a pivotal moment in addressing food insecurity, showcasing the government's commitment to social welfare. This initiative not only aims to ease the financial burden on low-income households but also strengthens the public distribution system, ensuring that essential goods reach the most vulnerable segments of society.
NationPress
15/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Assam Food Security Scheme?
The Assam Food Security Scheme is an initiative launched by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma to provide essential commodities like lentils, sugar, and salt at subsidized prices to over 70 lakh families across the state.
How much will beneficiaries pay for essential items?
Beneficiaries will pay only around Rs 100 for one kg of lentils, one kg of sugar, and one kg of salt under the Assam Food Security Scheme.
Who is eligible for the Assam Food Security Scheme?
The scheme is designed for families covered under the National Food Security Act (NFSA) in Assam.
When did the Assam Food Security Scheme launch?
The scheme was officially launched on November 10, 2023.
Where can beneficiaries access these essential goods?
The essential commodities will be distributed through fair price shops located throughout Assam.
