Projects

WORKSHOP ON MGNREGA AND PUBLIC DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM

What is MGNREGA? Why was this Act established? What are the schemes available under this Act? These, and many other questions were raised by participants at a workshop on MGNREGA organized for their benefit by Bandhavya, Mangalore at CODP-ISD on 23rd Nov. 2011.

Mr Sanjeeva Naik, Dy Director of Horticulture, Bantwal explained to the participants on why and how the MGNREG Act came into focus, the rights guaranteed to a rural unemployed person or family, procedure to apply for employment card and many other aspects of this Act. He also enlightened the participants on the schemes on watershed, forestry and horticulture, for growing small kitchen gardens, coconut or areca farms, rubber plantation, etc.

The Public Distribution System - PDS, evolved as a system or distribution of essential commodities like food grains at affordable prices. Over the years, PDS has become an important part of Government’s policy for management of food economy in the country. Speaking on this topic, Mr Sharana Basappa, Dy Director of FCS, Dept of Mangalore, gave a detailed explanation of the functioning of the FCS dept and the PDS. He explained about the type of essential commodities and facilities available through the BPL, APL, Akshaya and Anthyodaya Card schemes, criteria required to apply for new ration card, the authorities responsible to redress related problems at taluk or district levels, etc.

Mr Shankar Shetty, CODP compeered the day’s programme. He also introduced the resource persons to the gathering of over 50 members and proposed the vote of thanks at the end of each session.