Readers’ Forum: Centre should introduce ‘Annapurna Thali’ for the poor

Published by
Archive Manager

Apropos the article “Modicare, Utopia or Achievable Goal” by Dr. R. Kumar in Organiser”s issue dated April 8, 2018, I fully agree with the views of the writer that the National Health Protection Scheme (NHPS) of Government for the poor sick people will be path-breaking, if properly implemented. For this to happen, visibility of the scheme on the ground is must. For the present Government to remain in service of nation for long time to come irrespective of all odds, making this health scheme to grand success is of paramount importance. It will be icing on the cake for the deprived and poorest of the poor, if the central government in co-ordination with the state governments, bring a central meal scheme also say Rs. 10/- “Annapurna” Thali (similar to “Amma” Thali or even better) for somewhat healthy and working, but perennial hungry and ill-nourished poor people of urbanised India (starting with government-run kiosks and temporary stalls for distribution of Annapurna Thali near main markets, hospitals, jhuggies etc in towns).

Excess grains procured by government agencies like FCI etc can be partially diverted for this purpose. No much expertise and infrastructure will be required for the scheme unlike “Ayushman Bharat Yojana” ,which will require a large number of dedicated doctors, nurses, hospitals, primary health centres etc.
Uday Kumar, New Delhi
Share
Leave a Comment