The government has unveiled plans to distribute 700,000 tonnes of food grains throughout Ramadan and the following month to ensure food security for millions of people.
Food Advisor Ali Imam Majumdar announced that 10 million families would receive 10 kg of rice for free during Eid-ul-Fitr.
Speaking to reporters on Monday after a meeting with district administrators at the Deputy Commissioners’ Conference, Majumdar highlighted the need for an efficient and well-organized distribution process.
“Deputy commissioners have been instructed to maintain discipline in food grain distribution and contribute to stabilizing market prices,” he stated.
To curb price hikes during Ramadan, the government will supply food grains at subsidized rates and, in some cases, free of charge. Deputy commissioners (DCs) have been tasked with ensuring the smooth implementation of this initiative.
The distribution program spans two months—March (coinciding with Ramadan) and April (post-Eid). Out of the 700,000 tonnes, 300,000 tonnes will be allocated under the “Khadya Bandhab Programme,” with 150,000 tonnes distributed each month. Under this scheme, 5 million families will receive 30 kg of rice at Tk 15 per kg.
Additionally, 100,000 tonnes have been earmarked for the Trading Corporation of Bangladesh (TCB) to be distributed equally over the two months.
Another 100,000 tonnes will be sold through the Open Market Sale (OMS) program.
Majumdar expressed confidence that these measures would help regulate rice prices and maintain a stable supply in the market.
“This distribution will significantly impact market price control. Various authorities will manage logistics, while DCs will oversee the overall process,” he added.
He also pointed out that previous monitoring efforts in Dhaka Metropolitan Area were not as stringent. “Special directives have been issued for officials in Dhaka to strictly supervise the operation,” he noted.
To ensure proper oversight, magistrates will monitor the food grain distribution across 122 sales centers and 70 truck sales points in Dhaka Division.
Majumdar, who also serves as the land advisor to the interim government, further disclosed that by March 10, 80% of land management tasks related to e-mutation (digital land registration) would be completed, making the system more efficient and transparent.
