Hyderabad: Civil supplies and irrigation minister N Uttam Kumar Reddy on Monday said the state is planning to strengthen its foodgrain security buffer to protect 3.4 crore people dependent on the public distribution system (PDS) against possible drought, crop losses and rising food prices amid the anticipated El Nino impact.
Uttam Kumar Reddy said Telangana requires approximately 2.4 lakh metric tonnes of rice every month, amounting to 28.6 lakh metric tonnes annually, to meet the combined requirements of the Central Pool Public Distribution System, Other Welfare Schemes (OWS) and the State Pool, including the Mid-Day Meal programme and other welfare requirements. He underscored that the food security of millions of beneficiaries must remain protected even if future crops are adversely affected by natural calamities due to El Nino. The minister also examined the possibility of providing selected essential commodities including wheat flour through the PDS to cushion households against potential price increases. Officials presented financial estimates for different distribution models, including distribution at subsidised rates. Reviewing the state’s rice stocks and procurement plans, the minister stressed that Telangana should be prepared for adverse seasonal conditions rather than depend entirely on the success of the forthcoming paddy harvest. Civil supplies commissioner Stephen Ravindra and other senior officials took part in the review.
The department was asked to work out the quantities required per beneficiary, procurement arrangements and the financial burden before the proposal is placed before the state cabinet for a decision.
The minister emphasised the importance of ensuring that the quantities expected from millers and other sources actually reach govt’s stocks on schedule. The stock position provides a substantial cushion for another five months.