June 21st 2024.
The state of Bhubaneswar is taking a big step towards improving their Public Distribution System for ration card holders. Soon, within the next week, a rice ATM will be set up in the Capital City to make the process of getting rice easier and more streamlined. This exciting news was shared by the Food Supplies and Consumer Welfare Minister, Krushna Chandra Patra, during a review meeting of the department.
According to Patra, each ration card beneficiary will be provided with a special card that can be used at any rice ATM in the country. This will not only make it easier for people to access their allotted rice, but it will also help in identifying and removing the over 50 lakh ghost ration card beneficiaries from the list. Patra assured that these ghost beneficiaries will be replaced with new eligible ones soon and strict orders have been issued to ensure this happens.
The minister also spoke about the procurement of paddy and the good news that the state government will now be procuring it at a higher price of Rs3,100 per quintal, thanks to the Centre's decision to increase the Minimum Support Price to Rs2,300. This will reduce the burden on the government and farmers will be able to sell their paddy at a better price. Patra also ensured that farmers will no longer face the issue of 'Katni Chhatni' during the procurement process and their money will be transferred to their accounts within 48 hours.
However, the minister also warned that strict action will be taken against any millers or dealers who are found to be cheating or taking advantage of farmers. With these positive changes and improvements, the state of Bhubaneswar is taking a big step towards ensuring fair and efficient distribution of rice to its citizens. The rice ATM is just the beginning and more such ATMs will be set up in all district headquarters towns in the near future.
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