Rice distribution begins under Food-friendly Programme for 5.5 m cardholders
Staff Correspondent
The Ministry of Food launched the distribution of rice under the Food-Friendly Programme on August 1 to ensure food security, stabilize market prices, and provide essential food support to low-income populations during lean periods.
Under this initiative, 5.5 million cardholder beneficiaries across 495 upazilas will receive 30 kg of rice per month at a subsidized rate of Tk 15 per kg for a total of six months, covering August, September, October, November, March, and April.
To address malnutrition among vulnerable groups—particularly women and children—fortified rice is currently being distributed to roughly 2.52 million beneficiaries across 248 upazilas. Meanwhile, regular rice is being provided to 2.97 million beneficiaries across 247 upazilas. In tandem with this program, the Open Market Sale (OMS) program continues to distribute regular rice and flour nationwide through 1,108 designated centers, shops, and trucks.
The government reported that the country's current food stock stands at an exceptionally satisfactory level, surpassing reserves from any previous period as food grain procurement operations remain ongoing. As of August 2, total food reserves reached 2,349,385 metric tons, which includes 1,966,148 metric tons of rice, 280,010 metric tons of wheat, and 152,109 metric tons of paddy (converted into rice).
The government reiterated its firm commitment to safeguarding food security, lowering malnutrition rates, and expanding public welfare-oriented social safety net programs.
