In a proactive move to avert potential food grain shortages during the monsoon season, the Mizoram government has ensured a three-month buffer stock of rice across the state. Officials confirmed that the stockpile will be sufficient to meet public demand through the critical rainy months of June, July, and August, despite possible disruptions in transportation and supply chains due to inclement weather. Teresa Vanlalhruaii, Secretary of the Department of Food, Civil Supplies, and Consumer Affairs, informed the media on Friday that all government storage facilities—spanning both urban and remote districts—have been stocked in advance. The preparation aims to shield residents, especially those in far-flung areas, from the seasonal logistical challenges that frequently hinder supply movement in Mizoram’s hilly terrain.
“With support from the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, we have initiated the disbursement of three months’ rice quotas for AAY and PHH beneficiaries under the National Food Security Act (NFSA),” Vanlalhruaii said. “This is to ensure no household is left without food during the rainy season, even if roads become inaccessible.” The state typically faces frequent landslides and road blockages during heavy rainfall, making it difficult to transport essential commodities to interior regions. This year, anticipating such hurdles, the government took early measures to streamline storage and distribution.
The rice supply, distributed in advance, will reach over 2.5 lakh beneficiaries under the Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) and Priority Household (PHH) categories. Both schemes are lifelines for economically weaker sections, offering subsidized food grains to families living below or near the poverty line. In addition to grain stocking, Mizoram has also urged its citizens to harvest rainwater wherever possible, especially in light of recent damage to water pipelines and pumping stations caused by heavy rains.
