Assam Food, Public Distribution and Consumer Affairs Minister Kaushik Rai has directed officials to expedite the formation of the State Food Commission under the National Food Security Act, 2013, while reviewing key departmental initiatives aimed at strengthening food security and public welfare.
Chairing a departmental review meeting on Friday, the Minister emphasised transparency, accountability and the timely implementation of government programmes. Officials informed the meeting that the proposed State Food Commission will consist of seven members, including representatives from the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes, as well as at least two women members. Rai instructed the department to complete the process without delay, highlighting the Commission’s vital role in monitoring and implementing food security provisions.
The Minister also reviewed the ongoing paddy procurement process and directed the Managing Director of Assam Food & Civil Supplies Corporation Limited, Diganta Das, to closely examine the procedures followed by rice mills. He ordered immediate corrective action wherever irregularities are identified and called for the reshuffling of officials associated with procurement before the next procurement season to improve transparency.
In addition, the meeting assessed preparations for the proposed distribution of masur dal and sugar under the department’s welfare initiatives. Rai instructed officials to complete all logistical and administrative arrangements so that the scheme can be formally launched by the Chief Minister on August 1, 2026. The review reflects the Assam Government’s continued focus on strengthening food security, improving public distribution systems and ensuring greater efficiency in welfare delivery.
