Raipur: Chhattisgarh is taking a major step toward modernising its public distribution system with the introduction of ‘Annapurti Grain ATMs’, allowing eligible beneficiaries to collect ration through automated machines instead of depending entirely on traditional fair-price shops.
The system is designed to make ration distribution faster, more transparent and convenient. Beneficiaries can verify their identity using their Aadhaar details or biometric authentication and collect their entitled quantity of foodgrain directly from the machine.
The initiative is particularly expected to benefit daily-wage workers and people who find it difficult to visit ration shops during fixed working hours. The machines can provide access to foodgrain around the clock, reducing the need to stand in long queues.
The Grain ATM system is also aimed at reducing complaints related to short weighing and irregularities in ration distribution, as the quantity is dispensed automatically by the machine. Some machines have a storage capacity of several tonnes, allowing them to serve a large number of beneficiaries.
According to recent reports, the facility is being rolled out across selected locations in Chhattisgarh, with the state becoming one of the states to adopt this technology for ration distribution. The system could mark a significant shift from conventional ration-shop queues toward a more technology-driven PDS model.
With the Grain ATM, Chhattisgarh is attempting to make access to essential food supplies more convenient while improving transparency and efficiency in the public distribution system.
