ZIRO, May 18: Arunachal Pradesh State Food Commission (APSFC) Chairman Tarh Tarak on Monday chaired a joint review meeting on the implementation of the National Food Security Act (NFSA) at the Golden Jubilee Conference Hall in Ziro.
The meeting brought together administrative officials and departmental heads from Lower Subansiri and Keyi Panyor districts to assess the delivery of food security schemes and address challenges in implementation.
During the session, APSFC Member Ngasah Tangjang highlighted the evolution of India’s food distribution system, tracing its journey from the rationing practices of the colonial period to the rights-based framework established under the NFSA. He emphasized that the Commission’s quasi-judicial powers are aimed at safeguarding the interests of vulnerable sections of society.
Officials reviewed the status of beneficiaries covered under the Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) and Priority Household (PHH) schemes. Chairman Tarak expressed concern over irregularities related to electronic Point of Sale (ePOS) machines and directed the concerned department to address technical issues to ensure smooth and transparent ration distribution.
Representatives from the Health and Social Welfare Departments, including Child Development Project Officers (CDPOs) and the District Medical Officer (DMO), also shared challenges faced in implementing welfare schemes such as the Supplementary Nutrition Programme and Janani Suraksha Yojana, particularly in view of limited financial resources.
Chairman Tarak appreciated the maintenance of the Food Corporation of India (FCI) godown in the district and stressed the need for establishing a dedicated food testing laboratory to ensure the quality and safety of food supplied under welfare schemes.
He further directed all heads of departments in both districts to maintain proper records, strictly adhere to statutory guidelines, and intensify awareness campaigns so that beneficiaries are fully informed about their entitlements and access procedures under the NFSA.