HP to launch food security program from August 20: minister

Dharamsala, Jul 25. Himachal Pradesh is all set to launch the food security program from August 20 coinciding with the birthday of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi. "The location from where CM Virbhadra Singh will start the programme is yet to be decided," said G S Bali, Food Minister of Himachal in Dharamsala today. Around 32 lakh persons of the state will be benefited by the central government scheme, Bali said adding, beneficiaries will get wheat at Re 1 per kg and rice at Rs 3 per kg. "According to central guidelines a maximum of 75 per cent rural and 50 per cent urban residents can come under this programme," the minister said, stressing that the state government's programme to provide subsidiary food of three cereals, oil and salt for others will continue. "As soon as sugar is received from Centre for distribution through the PDS network, it will be distributed across the state along with pending quota," he added.