Photo: BSS

RAJSHAHI, May 19, 2026 (BSS) - With the holy Eid-ul-Azha approaching, rice distribution under the Vulnerable Group Feeding (VGF) programme has begun for 4,625 underprivileged families in the Nowhata municipal area of Paba upazila in the district.

The two-day programme was inaugurated this morning at the Nowhata Government High School ground. The government support ahead of Eid has brought relief to low-income people.

Poor and destitute families across the municipality's nine wards are being provided with 10 kg of rice each.

On the opening day, long queues of beneficiaries were seen at the ground from the morning. Many stood in line early to collect the assistance for their families.

Upazila Nirbahi Officer and Municipal Administrator Ibnul Abedin attended the event as the chief guest.

He said, "The initiative has been taken so that no helpless family suffers from food shortages ahead of Eid. Rice distribution will be completed in phases in each ward of the municipality. Our goal is to bring smiles to the faces of the beneficiaries."

He further said the VGF activity is being implemented as part of the government's social safety net programme, and the administration is maintaining strict supervision to ensure proper distribution.

Among others, Nowhata Municipal Executive Officer Robiul Islam, Executive Engineer Ataur Rahman and Accounts Officer Sajjad Hossain were present at the event.

Beneficiaries expressed relief and gratitude after receiving the rice.

Talking to several beneficiaries, it was learned that such support ahead of Eid eases their concerns over food for at least a few days and allows them to celebrate the festival with some peace of mind.

Ismail Gazi, a physically challenged resident of Kazipara in Nowhata Municipality, came to collect the aid.

He said, "I am physically disabled and move around with the help of both hands. There is no able-bodied member in my family. We struggle to get by every day. Getting this rice today has helped a lot. It will meet many of our family's needs, and we'll be able to celebrate Eid a little better."

Similarly, Anjuara Khatun from Basantapur said, "We are poor people. During Eid, arranging food for the family becomes very difficult. This rice is a huge help for us. We are very grateful for this government initiative."