Dr. S.P. Katyal, Chairman of the Himachal Pradesh State Food Commission, chaired a high-level review meeting on Wednesday to evaluate the implementation of food security entitlements under the National Food Security Act (NFSA), 2013, and the Himachal Pradesh Food Security Rules, 2019.
The meeting focused on the progress of key welfare schemes, including the Targeted Public Distribution System (TPDS), PM-POSHAN, Integrated Child Development Scheme (ICDS), and the Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY). Dr. Katyal emphasized the importance of strict and effective monitoring of these schemes to ensure timely and transparent delivery of benefits to all eligible beneficiaries.
To strengthen accountability, Dr. Katyal directed officials to improve the grievance redressal system and enhance public awareness about the Commission’s role. He instructed that hoardings and notice boards with scheme details and contact information of the commission be displayed prominently at fair price shops, schools, and anganwadi centres, enabling beneficiaries to directly report any issues or non-receipt of entitlements.
Addressing the challenges posed by recent natural calamities in the state, Dr. Katyal highlighted the critical need for uninterrupted food supply during emergencies such as heavy rainfall, cloudbursts, and landslides. He urged all departments concerned to remain alert and responsive to ensure that rations and other food security benefits reach affected populations without delay.
The meeting was attended by Commission Members Hemis Negi and Hitesh Azad, Member Secretary Yogesh Chauhan, and senior officials from the Departments of Women and Child Development, Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs, and School Education.
