MUMBAI, JULY 01, 2020 (GPN): India Pulses and Grains Association (IPGA), the country’s apex body for the pulses and grains sector compliments the government and wholeheartedly welcomes the announcement. It is an unparalleled humanitarian gesture and arguably the world’s largest distribution of free rations as part of government’s welfare program.

The Hon’ble Prime Minister’s announcement on June 30th that free distribution of 5 kgs. Rice or Wheat for 80 crore individuals and 1 kg. of whole Chana for every vulnerable family (over 18 crore families) per month under the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana (PMGKAY) will continue beyond June for five months till November is most heartwarming.

Mr. Jitu Bheda, Chairman – IPGA speaking about the Hon’ble PM’s announcement said, “Extraordinary times call for extraordinary responses. The country has been facing difficult times because of Covid-19 pandemic, national lockdown (though easing) and stalled economic activities. It is in these challenging times that those at the bottom-of-the-pyramid deserve extra attention and support.”

Mr. Pravin Dongre, Founder Director – IPGA speaking about the announcement said, “By extending the supply of rice/wheat and pulses till November – a period that would cover important festivals – the government has not only ensured food security for a vast majority of the population but also nutrition security.”

Pulses are the most economical source of vegetable protein. Pulses are basic ingredient of diet for the population and provide a perfect mix of biological value when used with cereals. The country carries sufficient stocks of rice/wheat and Chana to be able to meet the additional demand.

IPGA once again compliments the government for this progressive initiative; and would like to assure policymakers of its continued support for welfare programs. ENDS

About IPGA:

India Pulses and Grains Association (IPGA), the nodal body for pulses and grains trade & industry in India has over 400 direct and indirect members which include individuals, corporates as well as Regional Pulses Traders and Processors Associations taking it’s pan-India reach to over 10,000 stake holders involved in the farming, processing, warehousing and import business of Pulses across the entire value chain.

IPGA’s vision is to make Indian pulses and grains industry & trade globally competitive; and in so doing, help advance India’s food and nutrition security. IPGA takes the onus of essaying a leadership role in the domestic agri-business and play a more proactive role in the global domain to foster healthy relations among Indian market participants and between India and all associates overseas.