“Will boost Uttarakhand economy once lockdown ends”

May 2020 \ News \ STATES—UTTARAKHAND

“Will boost Uttarakhand economy once lockdown ends”

Uttarakhand has been making all-out efforts to tackle the coronavirus pandemic, with Chief Minister Trivendra Singh Rawat leading from the front. The hill state has reported 48 cases so far, with no deaths. In an interview to IANS on a range of issues, Rawat said efforts have already been initiated to boost the state economy, and that the process will gain momentum once the lockdown ends. He said a ministerial group and high-powered committee will be constituted to gear up the state economy and generate jobs. Excerpts from interview: ...

By Navneet Mishra

What efforts have been made to ensure supply chains are not broken?

We have ensured the smooth functioning of pharmaceutical units, flour mills and food processing units.

How many people have benefited from supply of ration in Uttarakhand? How many people have benefitted from the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojana, Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana and Jan Dhan scheme?

Many steps have been taken for the welfare of the people. Schools have been ordered not to charge fees for lockdown period. Those suffering from coronavirus have been provided free treatment under the Atal Ayushman Uttarakhand Yojana. Manufacturers of edible oil have been asked to reserve 50 per cent of their produce for the state’s markets.

As per the Antyodaya Anna Yojana under the National Food Security Mission, each beneficiary has been given additional 5 kg rice free of cost for April, May and June. All charges on water supply and sewerage connections have been postponed till May 31. Electricity consumers too have benefitted.

Operation of flour mills has been smoothened to ensure sufficient availability of flour in the market during the lockdown. These mills have been provided wheat through the Food Corporation of India. We are ensuring availability of items of daily needs like edible oils, soaps, pulses, salt, etc at all ration shops. Home delivery of essentials has been ensured to the old and sick, and pregnant women.