More transparency in VGD activities stressed

RANGPUR, Dec 19 (BSS): More transparency and accountability in selection of beneficiaries and distribution of food assistance under vulnerable group development (VGD) programme could ensure food security of the poor and the distressed women.

Speakers said this at a public hearing on 'Social Safety Net Programme VGD' organised by Thakurgaon Unit of RDRS Bangladesh at Munshirhat Girls' High School ground under Debipur Union in Sadar Upazila of Thakurgaon Thursday afternoon.

They also stressed the need for enhanced participation of the organisations of small and marginal farmers in social safety-net activities, food security governance and policy-making process to improve livelihoods and ensure food security of the extremely poor.

The NGO organised the public hearing under the ongoing five-year term Improving Food Security Governance in South and Southeast Asia through Strengthened Participation of Organisations of Marginalised Farmers Regional Project.

The regional project is being implemented in Bangladesh, Nepal, India and Myanmar to improve livelihood of 1.02 million marginalised households, including ethnic communities, with assistance of European Union and Dan Church Aid.

A total of 260 males and females, including 30 VGD beneficiaries, and members of Debipur Union Federation of RDRS Bangladesh and common people of the area took part in the public hearing and asked various questions.

Acting Chairman of Debipur union Md Kamirul Islam attended the occasion and answered various questions asked by the participants as the chief guest with Chairman of Debipur Union Federation Habibur Rahman in the chair.