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Journalism of Courage
When it comes to diverting commodities meant for the public distribution system (PDS), Meghalaya fares the worst. According to an ORG-MARG survey, as much as 80 per cent of commodities meant for BPL families in the state were diverted in 2004-05.
If the State Government does not take corrective measures to stop illegal sale of essentials meant for the PDS, Meghalaya may lose its quota.
State Food and Civil Supplies Minister M N Mukhim said the ORG-MARG report was an “embarrassment” as it categorised Meghalaya as the state with the highest diversion rate of PDS commodities in the country. Mukhim assured that the Government would review the BPL and AAY lists to eliminate ghost ration cards.
The minister unveiled a nine point action plan to tackle the menace of “diversion” and said the plan would be put in place soon. Mukhim warned that serious action would be taken against anybody found diverting PDS commodities.
He said using the nine point action plan, the state would use Government agencies to distribute PDS commodities.
Mukhim felt this would minimise malpractices by fair price shopdealers. He also said that henceforth the PDS cards would be distributed by the block officers to the beneficiaries.
As part of the State government’s effort to streamline the PDS, Mukhim said the government will reduce the number of state nominees and wholesale dealers.
At present there are around 756 wholesale dealers in the state and the minister said it would be pruned down to around 400. The state would also introduce barcoded coupons for BPL beneficiaries. Mukhim said all existing dealers found indulging in malpractices would have their dealerships cancelled.
