Sikkim State Food Commission In Collaboration with Food and Civil Supplies Department Organises Awareness Programme on National Food Security Act 2013

Namchi, 5th March (IPR): In observance of the 50th anniversary of Sikkim’s Statehood, a one-day awareness programme on the National Food Security Act (NFSA) 2013 was conducted by the Sikkim State Food Commission in collaboration with the Food & Civil Supplies Department, Government of Sikkim. The event took place at a local hotel in Namchi today.
The programme was graced by Mr Bhoj Raj Rai Minister for the Food & Civil Supplies Department, who attended as the Chief Guest. He was joined by Mr Satish Chandra Rai MLA Namchi-Singhithang, as the Guest of Honour.
Also present during the programme were Ms Anjita Rajalim Adakshya Namchi Zilla, Mr Bikash Tamang Up-Adakshya Namchi Zilla, Ms Sabitri Tamang Vice Chairman, Panchayat Presidents and Vice Presidents,Dr S K Rai Chairman of SSFC,
Ms Diki Doma Bhutia Additional Secretary FCSD & Member Secretary SSFC, Mr Tenzing Bhutia DCSO Namchi,Officers and staff from FCSD aend related departments.
The purpose of this awareness programme was to disseminate crucial information regarding the National Food Security Act, 2013, and to educate the public on the various schemes and rights available under the Act. This initiative aimed to help the general public understand as to how they can access these benefits.
Mr Bhoj Raj Rai, the Chief Guest, expressed his gratitude to all attendees for their participation, emphasising that their presence reflected the seriousness of the public in understanding their rights and their trust in the state government. He assured that the government would continue to provide beneficial schemes to help the public.
He urged the public to be more vigilant about their consumer rights in daily life and assured them that the state government would offer continuous support.
He also encouraged Panchayat bodies to organise Gram Sabhas to spread awareness about state schemes and benefits.
Furthermore, he emphasised the need for beneficiaries of various schemes such as AAY, PHH, OPH, and NPH to update their E-KYC and biometric data to continue availing benefits. He also warned retailers against malpractices, cautioning that any violations would result in the immediate revocation of licences and legal action.
In addition, the Minister encouraged the youth to learn new trades and become a part of the skilled workforce of the state, offering support for training programmes.
Dr S K Rai, the Chairman of SSFC, highlighted the importance of the Consumer Rights Act and spoke about the role of the Consumer Rights Forum and the Consumer Affairs Department.
He informed the gathering about the E-KYC process and the availability of the E-Dakhil website, where the public can register complaints and grievances.
He also addressed health concerns, urging individuals to adopt better dietary and hygiene practices. He stressed the importance of proper nutrition for children and families, noting that the state government, through various schemes, provides nutritional support to beneficiaries.
Additionally, he reminded Fair-Price shop owners and other retailers to conduct fair transactions and respect consumer rights.
Ms Diki Doma Bhutia, Additional Secretary of FCSD and Member Secretary of SSFC, welcomed the participants and beneficiaries.
She provided insights into the roles and functions of the Sikkim State Food Commission in overseeing various schemes and resolving complaints.
Further, shevhighlighted important resources, such as the toll-free helpline number (1800-3453-236) and the Nodal Officer’s number (9832344649). She also shared the website (www.sikkim.impds.grams.nic.in), which is available for public use under the Section 14 of the Internal Grievance Redressal Mechanism.
She also pointed out the role of Panchayat members in facilitating awareness through Gram Sabhas, ensuring that all beneficiaries are informed of the available services and their rights.
Mr Tenzing Bhutia, DCSO Namchi, stressed the importance of raising awareness about the National Food Security Act. He highlighted that both the central and state governments prioritise ensuring that every individual has access to nutritious food at least once a day.
He provided details on the quality of rice distributed by the government, noting its high nutritional value, including essential nutrients such as Vitamin B12, iron, and folic acid.
He urged beneficiaries to update their biometric data through the E-KYC process to continue receiving benefits.
Mr Laxuman Tamang, CDPO of Women, Child, Senior Citizens & Divyangjan Welfare Department, provided valuable insights into the functioning of ICDS and Anganwadi Centres within the district. He elaborated on the various schemes available to children and families through these centres.
Mr Tilak Chettri, Assistant Director of the Education Department, shared information about the Mid-Day Meal scheme for students across different educational institutions. He mentioned that the scheme is now known as the PM Poshan scheme.
He also provided data on the distribution of rice across the district, noting that 188.54 quintals, 54.61 quintals, and 41.48 quintals are distributed in each respective quarter.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks presented by Mr Ritu Prasad Chettri, Food Inspector of Jorethang. The programme was moderated by Ms Albina Gurung, ASI, Food & Civil Supplies Department.