Press Information Bureau

Government of India

Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA)

26-December-2012 14:37 IST

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs today approved the allocation of 16200 tonnes of what and 9600 tonnes of rice for the Kumbh Mela 2012-13 at Below Poverty Lines (BPL) prices. Allocation of foodgrains at BPL prices will ensure availability of foodgrains to the tourists, devotees, kalpavasis, sadhus, religious and non-government organisations (NGOs), security forces and officials involved in connection with the organisation of Mela at subsidized rates. Allocation of above quantity of foodgrains at BPL prices will involve a subsidy of 40.60 crore.

The Government of Uttar Pradesh vide its letter dated 30.07.2012 had requested for allocation of 16200 tonnes of wheat and 9600 tonnes of rice for the Kumbh Mela 2012-13 at BPL prices. Kumbh Mela 2012-13 which is an internationally renowned religious festival, is being held in Allahabad after a gap of 12 years and approximately seven lakh kalpavasis and sadhus are expected to participate. Many international tourists may also attend.

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SC/SM

Allocation of foodgrains at BPL prices ensures subsidised supply during Kumbh Mela for designated beneficiaries. Approval authorised allocation of specified wheat and rice from the Central Pool for distribution at BPL prices to ensure subsidised availability to tourists, devotees, kalpavasis, sadhus, religious organisations, security forces and officials connected with the Kumbh Mela; the allocation responds to the State Government's request and gives rise to a central subsidy obligation for the released quantities.