The Odisha government transformed the Public Distribution System (PDS) for ration cardholders by introducing the first round-the-clock grain ATM in India, called the “rice ATM.”
Krushna Chandra Patra, the Minister of Food Supplies and Consumer Welfare for Odisha, introduced this equipment, which is situated in a warehouse in Mancheswar.
This machine is developed in partnership with the World Food Programme, this device, which runs continuously and gives consumers secure access to the food grains they are entitled to.
Krushna Chandra Patra told reporters that the goal was “to ensure beneficiaries receive rice in the correct weight, preventing any potential cheating.”
Capacity of the Rice ATM
The Annapurti Grain ATM, as it is officially known, is capable of dispensing up to 50 kg grain in just five minutes, with an error rate of only 0.01%.
How to use Rice ATM?
- Enter your ration card number on the touchscreen display.
- complete biometric verification (fingerprint or iris scan),
- You will receive their rice (up to 25 kg) after successful verification.
Benefits of using the rice ATM
- Eliminates long queues at traditional distribution points.
- Minimizes issues related to fraud and black marketing.
- Ensures accurate weight and prevents potential cheating.
- 24/7 access to rice, reducing waiting times by 70%.
Expansion plans
- After Bhubaneswar, plans to extend to all 30 districts of Odisha.
- Potential expansion under the One Nation One Ration Card scheme to other states.
Energy Usage
- The machine’s energy-efficient design consumes just 0.6 watts per hour and can be connected through Solar Panel.
- The machine is designed to be energy-efficient and easy to set up in different locations.
A week ago, the Odisha government identified over 16 lakh ghost ration card holders under its food security scheme.
KYC
The government will conduct KYC updates and introduce Aadhar-based e-KYC verification to ensure transparency.
Biometric System
A unique biometric system for recipients with thumb impression problems, home delivery of rations for the elderly and those unable to travel to the stores, and the issue of individual ration cards to people who have split up from their parents are among the new measures.
Date : 17th & 18th Aug, 2024
Time : 10 AM to 05 PM
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