The incumbent government of Tripura, committed to prioritizing public welfare, unveiled a new initiative aimed at resolving issues and ensuring solutions for its citizens on Tuesday (May 16).
Inaugurating the indigenous spices distribution program organized by the Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs department at Rabindra Bhawan, Chief Minister Prof. (Dr.) Manik Saha emphasized the government’s transparent and proactive approach towards public welfare.
Under the program, packaged spices will now be distributed to consumers through Fair Price Shops at subsidized rates. The Chief Minister highlighted the state government’s dedication to public welfare with a transparent approach. Every problem is viewed as a challenge, and the government is determined to provide effective solutions.
The opportunity for entrepreneurs to supply ground spices to the Fair Price Shops through e-tendering is a direct outcome of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “Vocal for Local” initiative. The Chief Minister expressed optimism, stating that the government’s sound policies and significant improvements in industrial infrastructure and connectivity have attracted industrial investors both from within and outside the state. The upcoming connectivity through the Maitri Setu in Sabroom is expected to transform Tripura into the gateway of South-East Asia, thereby bringing substantial changes to the state’s economy.
Moreover, the Chief Minister highlighted the significant advancements in Tripura, including improvements in national highways, airways, and internet connectivity. These developments are propelling Tripura towards the vision of “Ek Tripura, Shreshtha Tripura” (One Tripura, Best Tripura). Strengthening the Public Distribution System remains a top priority, and the government has initiated efforts to provide essential ration items at subsidized rates to every citizen through Fair Price Shops.
Ensuring the complete nutrition of the public, the state government has commenced the distribution of Fortified Rice under the Mid-Day Meal and Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) Project. Additionally, Antyodaya Ration Cards have been provided to the Bru Reang refugees, further assisting vulnerable communities.
Ravel Hemendra Kumar, the Principal Secretary of the Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs department, emphasized the department’s initiatives to strengthen the state’s Public Distribution System. Tripura has achieved an impressive fifth position nationwide and ranks first among special category states in implementing the National Food Safety Act. M/s Annada Spices Industry has been selected through e-tendering to cater four types of ground spices—turmeric, cumin, coriander, and red chili powder—through the Fair Price Shops. These spices will be available at lower rates compared to the open market prices, with 100g of Turmeric Powder priced at Rs. 16, 100g of Cumin Powder at Rs. 22, 50g of Coriander Powder at Rs. 13, and 50g of Red Chili Powder at Rs. 17.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Nirmal Adhikari, Director of the Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs department. Ratan Debnath, the owner of M/s Annada Spices Industry, also expressed his thoughts on the occasion, appreciating the government’s initiatives and partnership in promoting local entrepreneurship.
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With the launch of the indigenous spices distribution program and the government’s steadfast commitment to public welfare, the state of Tripura takes another step towards a more prosperous future for its citizens.