Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (SB)

Mangaluru, Mar 31: Minister for food and civil supplies U T Khader informed on Friday, March 31 that the rules for getting free rice for Below Poverty Line (BPL) card holders at fair price shops have been simplified in the state.

Addressing mediapersons at Circuit House he said, "From now on, BPL card holders are not required to present income certificate or affidavit for procuring free rice. The food and public distribution department will accept self certified applications from poor. People who earn less than Rs 1,20,000 per annum are eligible for self certification."

"We have already received 9 lac applications and will distribute 7 kg rice per head with immediate effect. The department is also conducting a random inspection of applications to avoid fraud. Anyone who indulges in fraud during self certification will be dealt as per law. Aadhar and coupons are not mandatory for purchase items from ration store anymore," he informed.

He also said, "A three-member vigilance committee will be formed for each ration shop. The selection of members will be made, without any political discrimination. These committees will check the functioning of ration stores in their area. If they find any issue of wrongdoing, they have the right to request the department for the cancellation of the license of the ration shop. The distribution of 7 kg free rice per head for BPL card holders will start from April 1."

Answering a query on drought he said, "The government is doing its best in this regard. Our neighbouring states are also praising our style of handling drought situations. Natural calamities are always unexpected and people know it better. They are co-operating with us."

Speaking on Indira canteen he said, "Eight canteens each will run in every assembly wards in Bengaluru. We are planning one common kitchen for these eight canteens. Hotel Association of Bengaluru have already come forward to provide kitchen facility for these canteens. The proposal is under discussion and after the verification, we will take the necessary steps."

Dismissing allegations about his involvement in distributing money during Gundlupet by-election campaigning, he said, "The opposition party is making baseless allegations fearing defeat in the by-elections. People of Gundlupet know the fact. They will elect Congress candidates."

Leaders Arif, Ashraf were present.