Assam government expands NFSA benefits with subsidized essentials for families

In a bid to strengthen food security and enhance nutrition among beneficiaries of the National Food Security Act (NFSA), the Assam government has rolled out a new welfare initiative aimed at supporting economically weaker households.

Under the newly launched scheme, all ration card holders currently availing free rice under the NFSA, 2013, will also be eligible to purchase essential food items—masoor dal, sugar, and salt—at government-subsidized rates.

Announcing the initiative during a press conference at the Baksa Deputy Commissioner’s office, DC Gautam Das said the move is part of the government’s continued efforts to ensure that no family in the state suffers from food insecurity.

According to official records, Baksa district has a total of 460 fair price shops serving 1,17,054 ration card holders. Each registered household will now be able to purchase masoor dal at Rs 69 per kg, sugar at Rs 38 per kg, and salt at Rs 10 per kg every month under the scheme.

DC Gautam Das further added that the subsidized rates are expected to be reduced even further from January 2026, making essential food items more affordable for the people.