Minister of Civil Affairs Li Liguo on Friday demanded better supervision of social assistance funds to ensure the money ends up with those who need it most.

A social assistance regulation to minimize the difference in assistance and subsidies between urban and rural areas will come into effect on May 1.

The regulation is the first to coordinate and regulate the fragmented social assistance system.

Civil affairs offices must tighten management and accountability system to make sure the cash is used for its intended purpose: social relief, Li told a press conference.

Li also encouraged more funds and services from society at large to take part in social assistance work.