More subsidized grain for Maha Kumbh pilgrims
New Delhi, Dec 26 (ANI)
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) today approved the allocation of 16200 tonnes of wheat and 9600 tonnes of rice for the pilgrims visiting the Maha Kumbh 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.