(a) whether the Food Corporation of India (FCI) checks the quality of foodgrains before procurement
of the same;
(b) if so, the details thereof and the mechanism in place for the same;
(c) whether substandard foodgrains have been procured by FCI during each of the last three years
despite having quality check system in place;
(d) if so, the details thereof alongwith the number of officers held responsible in this regard;and
(e) the action taken against the persons held responsible?
MINISTER OF THE STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE AND
MINISTER OF THE STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF CONSUMER AFFAIRS,
FOOD & PUBLIC DISTRIBUTION (PROF. K.V. THOMAS)
(a) and (b): Yes, Madam. The samples of foodgrains are drawn before procurement by Food Corporation of India
(FCI) officers and are analysed for physical parameters including moisture content to check the quality of
foodgrains. Foodgrains conforming to uniform specifications prescribed by the Government are procured by the
FCI.
(c),(d)&(e): No, Madam. Officials of FCI are expected to adhere to specifications during procurement of
foodgrains. Stocks not conforming to FAQ specifications are not accepted at procurement centers of FCI.