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India launches huge cheap food programme ahead of election (BBC)
The Indian government has launched a giant programme to provide subsidised food to two-thirds of the population.
The food security ordinance will provide 5kg of cheap grain every month to nearly 800 million poor people.
Ministers were criticised for passing the measure as an ordinance, after failing to win parliamentary support.
Critics say the plan is a political move to win votes and will drain India's finances. Supporters say it will help reduce poverty.
"The union cabinet has approved the food security ordinance unanimously," Food Minister KV Thomas told reporters after the cabinet meeting.
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more: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-india-23164697
Try to feed the poor, face harsh criticism ... how eerily familiar.