Kohima: At least 70.9 per cent of the population of Nagaland is estimated to be covered under the National Food Security Ordinance 2013.
According to report received in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha, Union Minister of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution K V Thomas yesterday said based on National Sample Survey Office (NSSO) Consumption Expenditure Survey data for 2011-12, the Planning Commission has estimated the 79.83 per cent of rural population and 61.98 per cent of urban population in the State of Nagaland will be covered by the Ordinance. The National Food Security Ordinance 2013 promulgated on July 5, 2013, provides for coverage of up to 75 per cent of the rural and up to 50 per cent of the urban population at the all India level to receive five kg of foodgrains at subsidised prices under Targeted Public Distribution System, provided that households covered under Antyodaya Anna Yojana will be entitled to 35 kilograms per household per month. The annual requirement of food grains for implementation of the Ordinance is estimated at 614.3 Lakh tonne.
The Minister said the Ordinance further provides that the State-wise percentage coverage will be determined by the Central Government. Identification of beneficiaries within the State will be done by the state concerned only.(UNI)