Key Takeaways
- Punjab government has prepared proposals to amend the rules and terms of reference of the food supplies committee.
- The amendments aim to ensure food security during emergencies and improve storage and distribution mechanisms.
- Proposals include special arrangements to protect food reserves against radiation and climate-related hazards.
The Punjab government has initiated a process to amend the rules and terms of reference (ToRs) of the provincial food supplies committee, aiming to enhance food security during emergencies. This move follows the directions of the Punjab chief minister and was discussed at a meeting chaired by Secretary Food Safety and Consumer Protection, Dr Kiran Khurshid.
Dr Kiran Khurshid stated that the proposed amendments will soon be sent to the cabinet secretary for approval. The amendments are expected to expand the committee’s scope and improve its operational mechanisms. The Punjab food safety and consumer protection department has also forwarded the proposed changes to the home department.
According to Dr Kiran Khurshid, timely measures are being taken to assess food grain requirements, determine strategic food reserves, and maintain minimum safe stocks. The proposals also focus on improving the storage and distribution of food grains according to emergency requirements. Special arrangements are being made to protect food reserves against radiation and climate-related hazards.
The meeting also discussed the need for an effective mechanism for supplying and distributing food grains during emergencies. Legal and regulatory measures for the procurement and supply of food grains are also part of the proposed amendments. Special measures have been proposed to protect food storage facilities, warehouses, and distribution systems.
The committee’s role in coordinating with various departments, including the food department, finance department, armed forces, Pakistan Railways, transport department, National Logistics Corporation (NLC), and Pakistan Agricultural Storage and Services Corporation (PASSCO), has been reaffirmed. The proposed amendments aim to ensure the availability, protection, transportation, and timely supply of food grains during emergencies.
Participants of the meeting reaffirmed their commitment to making the storage and distribution of food grains more transparent and efficient. The Cabinet Division had approved the establishment of the committee and its terms of reference on September 2, 2020.
Dr Kiran Khurshid highlighted the importance of coordinated planning to meet the food requirements of the civilian population and armed forces during emergencies. The committee’s role in ensuring food security during such times is critical, and the proposed amendments are seen as a step towards achieving this goal.
