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Minister for Food, Civil Supplies, and Consumer Affairs K.H. Muniyappa and Minister for Social Welfare H.C. Mahadevappa on Saturday inaugurated the Food Pavilion organised by the Department of Food, Civil Supplies, and Consumer Affairs at the ongoing Dasara Exhibition. The pavilion highlights the Anna Bhagya guarantee scheme, rural lifestyle, and various food grains, including rice, maize, and ragi. The Department of Legal Metrology has also showcased weighing instruments and other related equipment at the event. A thematic display on a ‘Hunger-Free Karnataka’ and a prosperous rural life has been established. Speaking after the inauguration, Mr. Muniyappa said that ration cards are being revised. “If any eligible beneficiary has been moved from the BPL to the APL category during revision, they can submit a request to the respective tahsildar. After verification, new cards will be reissued,” he said. “Under the Anna Bhagya scheme, each eligible beneficiary is being provided 10 kg of free rice. From next month onwards, distribution of the Indira food kit will also begin,” Mr. Muniyappa stated. In his address, Dr. Mahadevappa said, “Food is essential for everyone and should not be wasted. Do not throw away food as it is equivalent to gold for the poor. ‘Antyodaya’ means ending hunger. The government introduced the scheme to provide 10 kg of free rice to BPL and ‘Antyodaya’ families. Now, the Cabinet has approved 5 kg of rice and the remaining 5 kg as part of the Indira kit containing pulses and oil.” Dr. Mahadevappa added that the government has implemented the Food Security Act to ensure every family’s right to food, and the pavilion serves as a platform to spread awareness about these initiatives. Karnataka Exhibition Authority Chairman Ayub Khan and other officials were present.
