The Ministry of Food has launched the distribution of rice under its Food-Friendly Programme from 1 August, seeking to ensure food security and price stability while assisting low-income groups during lean periods.
According to a ministry press release, 55 lakh card-holding beneficiaries across 495 upazilas will receive 30kg of rice monthly at a subsidised rate of Tk15 per kg. The distribution is scheduled for a total of six months, spanning August to November and March to April.
The programme specifically targets malnutrition among the poor, especially women and children, by providing fortified rice to approximately 25.29 lakh beneficiaries in 248 upazilas. Meanwhile, 29.71 lakh beneficiaries in 247 upazilas are receiving plain rice.
The government is maintaining regular nationwide distribution of rice and flour via Open Market Sale (OMS) programme through 1,108 centres, including shops and trucks.
The ministry stated that the country’s food reserves are currently at an all-time high, with grain procurement activities still in progress.
As of 2 August, the total food grain stock reached 23,49,385 metric tonnes. This figure comprises 19,66,148 tonnes of rice, 2,80,010 tonnes of wheat, and 1,52,109 tonnes of paddy.
These initiatives reflect the government’s broader commitment to improving the effectiveness of social protection programmes, reducing malnutrition, and safeguarding food security.
