CII expresses concern over efficient implementation of Food Security Bill

Noting the decision of the Union Cabinet with regard to the Food Security Bill Ordinance, the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) has expressed hope that this scheme will be targeted at the neediest populations and would be rolled out with maximum efficiency.

"Concerns are there since delivery model of such an ambitious scheme are based on models like the Public Distribution System," said a statement issued by the CII.

"We are certain that in the process of rolling out this very comprehensive scheme, the Government would balance outgo on foodgrains with overall macro-economic conditions, such as fiscal deficit and inflation. Under the present economic situation, the government can hardly afford to allow the fiscal deficit roadmap to be compromised in any way," the statement adds.

The Confederation of Indian Industry further said it is imperative to ensure that agricultural productivity is boosted in order to ensure adequate production of foodgrains.

"With extra disposable income in the hands of the poor, there would be a welcome shift in dietary preference to high value items such as vegetables, fruits, dairy products, and meat," said the CII in a statement.

" By ensuring implementation of the Model APMC Act at the state level, encouraging contract farming, and setting up missions for agri technology, sustainability and irrigation, yields can be boosted to global benchmarks," the statement adds.

President Pranab Mukherjee today promulgated the National Food Security Ordinance, 2013.

The Food Security programme when implemented will be the biggest in the world with the government spending estimated at one lakh 25 thousand crore rupees annually.

The Food Security Bill was tabled during the Budget Session of Parliament, but could not be taken up for discussion because of opposition-led disruptions of proceedings arising out of scam-related allegations.

The Food Security Bill is aimed at giving legal rights to 67 percent of the population for a uniform quantity of 5 kg food grains at a fixed price of Rs 1-3 per kg through ration shops.