The UT Administration has initiated the process for implementation of National Food Security Act (NFSA), 2013 in the Union Territory of Chandigarh and prescribed application forms and affidavits for the beneficiaries will be made available from next week.
The forms will be made available at Fair Price Shops (FPSs), Food and Supplies office at Sector —17, and e — sampark centres in Chandigarh. The UT Deputy Commissioner — cum— Director Food & Supplies and Consumer Affairs will be the “nodal officer” for implementation for the implementation of NFSA 2013 and Joint Director Food & Supplies and Consumer Affairs will be the “Grievance Redressal Officer”.
While addressing a press conference here, UT Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Shayin said that the Department is in the process to workout for the identification of eligible beneficiaries to whom the essential commodities are to be delivered, as per the entitlements. From December 2013/ January 2014, the distribution will start as per the provisions of NFSA.
He said that to expedite the speedy implementation of NFSA, 2013 in Chandigarh necessary directions has been given to the Department of Food & Supplies and Consumer Affairs by UT Administrator Shivraj Patil. The existing terminology ie, Above Poverty line (APl) and Below Poverty line (BPl)will be merged to be called as the “Priority Household”, as per the provisions of the NFSA, 2013. Also, the second category will be the Antoyada Anna Yojana households ie, “AAY households”.
list of BPl and AAY already available with Department is available at the website and will be put on display at DC Office, SDM’s office, etc for inviting objection (or addition & deletion). The Department has proposed that the State Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission, may be assigned the work of “State Food Commission” for the purpose of monitoring and review of the NFSA 2013 here,” said he. Any beneficiary claiming benefits by giving false declaration shall be liable for legal action and the released benefits will be taken back in the form of cash with interest, as per timeline fixed by Department.