CALORIES VS KGS

It is well- documented that even under PDS, many BPL families trade subsidised grain for cash and use it to buy what they need. Under the new bill, this is likely to be perpetuated. There will be no change in the nutritional status of beneficiaries. There has been no attempt to provide nutritional security, as dairy, oils, pulses, sugar, fruits and vegetables are absent in it. According to food policy expert Biraj Patnaik, “That other social determinants of malnutrition, like access to safe drinking water, sanitation and quality primary healthcare are not addressed, will ensure that while the bill will address hunger, it won’t make a dent on malnutrition.”

Expand the bill to include greater variety of food items to ensure there is diet variation and focus extends beyond calorific requirements.