As a substantial quantity of food grains will be distributed at highly subsidized rates, and in some cases free of charge, during the holy month of Ramadan, Deputy Commissioners (DCs) have been directed to ensure the orderly implementation of this initiative, said Food Adviser Ali Imam Majumdar.

Speaking to reporters after the first working session on the second day of the three-day Deputy Commissioner (DC) conference at the Osmani Memorial Auditorium on Monday (February 17), Majumdar underscored the need for effective supervision. 

Secretary of the Food Ministry Md. Masudul Hasan was also present at the event.

The Food Adviser said that approximately seven lakh tons of food grains will be distributed over March and April. This includes 1.5 lakh tons per month, along with an additional three lakh tons under the food-friendly program.

Under this initiative, 50 lakh families will receive 30 kg of rice at Tk 15 per kg. Another one lakh tons will be distributed through the Trading Corporation of Bangladesh (TCB) over two months, with an additional one lakh tons allocated through Open Market Sales (OMS).

He further announced that during Eid, one crore families will receive 10 kg of rice free of charge. These initiatives are expected to help stabilize market prices. While various authorities will manage the distribution, DCs will oversee the overall execution.

According to Majumdar, previous distribution efforts in Dhaka were not closely monitored. 

He has now directed officials in Dhaka to ensure strict supervision, holding a separate meeting with the Commissioner of Dhaka Division and planning another. 

Besides, magistrates have been tasked with monitoring the 122 sales centers and 70 truck cells in the division, along with TCB operations, if necessary.

BDST: 1244 HRS, FEB 17, 2025
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