The Chinese central government has allocated 5.53 billion yuan in subsidies for low-income residents ahead of schedule for upcoming New Year Day and Chinese lunar New Year, which falls on Jan. 29.

According to a statement posted Saturday on the official website of the Ministry of Finance, local governments should allocate their share of the subsides immediately after receiving it to subordinate government departments for payment to targeted residents.

The ministry and the Ministry of Civil Affairs also ordered local governments to make sure the money will not be used improperly through stringent approval and check procedures.

China has strengthened its assistance to its citizens in needs as part of its efforts to build a harmonius society and narrow the widening gap between the rich and the poor.

Source: Xinhua