Since the beginning of the coronavirus pandemic, the government has stood by the people. So far 74 million people of more than 1.70 crore families have received relief aid during the crisis.
The government has been working continuously to provide essential goods to the needy. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina inaugurated the distribution programme on May 14.
The government has so far distributed 1,98,451 tonnes out of 2,14,939 tonnes of rice among the people, according to the data provided by 64 district administrations till July 18.
The government has allocated more than Tk 126 crore in cash for purchasing other goods including baby food across the country.
The authorities must devise
strategies for more efficient
distribution and wider coverage
Those who depend on their daily earnings such as rickshaw pullers, hawkers, transport workers, construction workers and other daily labourers have lost a significant portion of their income. As a result, they have become reliant on government aid to feed their families.
The government must continue to provide assistance to these families until the crisis is over. The authorities must devise strategies for more efficient distribution and wider coverage.
There have been reports that those who are undeserving of aid are receiving it. On the other hand, many are being deprived of assistance. The government must form committees in each region to investigate and root out any irregularities in relief distribution.
Special teams should be formed in each area in order to prevent corruption in the relief distribution programme and stop people who can spoil such a people-friendly initiative taken by the government from creating any nuisance. The government should focus on effective and swift distribution of relief for those in need.
