In a significant move to provide assistance to the migrant families in the wake of COVID-19 lockdown, Authorities in Baramulla today Kick-Started free distribution of essential ration items among these families under the recently launched Atmanirbhar Bharat programme. The drive was launched on the directions of Deputy Commissioner Baramulla Dr G N Itoo.Pertinent to mention that, under Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative every migrant worker shall be provided free 10 kg rice and some other vital items for two months.On the occasion, Assistant Director Food Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs Baramulla Shiekh Tariq informed that the programme was started from Baramulla and remaining regions of the district shall be covered in subsequent phases. He said that in district Baramulla about 1022 migrant families comprising of about 2827 souls, are currently present and they shall be covered under the said programme. Moreover, he reiterated that several initiatives were taken by district administration which aimed at providing assistance to the poor and destitute families at this critical juncture.