Coronavirus: Centre to give rice, wheat to poor at Rs 3 and Rs 4 per kg

Coronavirus: Centre to give rice, wheat to poor at Rs 3 and Rs 4 per kg
Union Minister Prakash Javadekar.

New Delhi: Union Minister Prakash Javadekar on Wednesday said the Centre and state governments are working in tandem to prevent the spread of coronavirus and asked people not to panic amid countrywide lockdown.

For the poor, the Centre will give rice and wheat at the rate of three and two rupees a kg, respectively, Javadekar said in a cabinet briefing.

"Cheap or free ration is being given out. It is the world's biggest food security system. This will be extended to three months," the Union minister added.

He further said that contractual labourers will get wages on time and also announced the recapitalization of regional banks.

Javadekar said the Ministry of Home Affairs is slated to come up with a helpline number today. "Every district will have a helpline number."

The lockdown was imposed in the country from today and will be in force till April 14.

Javadekar requested people to stay at home, maintain social distancing, wash hands frequently and visit a doctor if the symptoms appear.

"The 21-day lockdown is important. Spend quality time with your family and do not resort to panic-buying. Essential items will be available throughout the country," he said.

The comments posted here/below/in the given space are not on behalf of Onmanorama. The person posting the comment will be in sole ownership of its responsibility. According to the central government's IT rules, obscene or offensive statement made against a person, religion, community or nation is a punishable offense, and legal action would be taken against people who indulge in such activities.