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CANACONA
Residents of Sadolxem in Canacona have objected to the sale of substandard rice and wheat through PDS (Public Distribution System).
They have claimed that the grains that are supplied are infested with worms and weevil.
The residents got together under the banner of 'Senior Citizens of Sadolxem' and submitted a memorandum to the Deputy Collector of Canacona complaining against a particular fair price shop operating as a PDS outlet in the village.
"We are complaining against the substandard quality of rice and wheat supplied through the PDS outlet at Khotwado, Sadolxem. Worms and a lot of weevil (borod) are found in the grains purchased from the said outlet," stated the residents.
Residents also provided samples of substandard rice and wheat to the Deputy Collector.
According to sources, the Collector immediately ordered the Joint Mamlatdar of Canacona to conduct an inquiry and initiate appropriate action.
Sources further informed that as per the direction of the Deputy Collector, a fair price shop at Sadolxem was raided and stocks of rice and wheat were seized for inspection and further probe.
Incidentally, several residents also complained that most fair price shops operating as outlets under PDS have also been selling substandard rice and wheat for the last two months, and many who have purchased these food grains were forced to use it as feed for cattle or other domestic animals.
