Indian Food Bill prioritises women and children

Summary of story from The Asian Age, December 19, 2011

A new bill in India proposes a payment of 1,000 rupees per month for pregnant and breastfeeding women.

In addition, the bill states that ration cards used for claiming subsidies on grain products would be issued to the eldest female family member.

The National Food Security Bill, cleared by the Cabinet on Sunday, sets out a system of per-person entitlements to wheat, rice and millet at subsidised prices.

It aims to support at least 46 per cent of the rural population and 28 per cent of the urban population identified as ‘priority households’, while providing free meals for the poorest and most vulnerable groups.

The Women and Child Development Ministry has also suggested providing free mid-day meals for children up to completion of Class 7 (age 12).

The bill also includes funds for sustainable agriculture, and sets penalties for public authorities failing to comply.