Telangana Minister Calls Fine Rice Distribution a Revolutionary Step

Hyderabad, April 4 (NationPress) The Minister for Irrigation and Civil Supplies in Telangana, N. Uttam Kumar Reddy, stated on Friday that the free distribution of fine rice via the Public Distribution System in the state is a transformative initiative.

He referred to it as the largest food security program in the history of India, noting that it has garnered significant support from the populace.

Each eligible citizen will receive 6 kg of fine rice monthly. The government plans to distribute 30 lakh metric tonnes of rice annually at an expenditure of Rs 13,000 crore. The Minister emphasized that this initiative exemplifies social justice, aiming to assist 3.10 crore people—approximately 85 percent of Telangana’s total population.

During a video conference led by Chief Secretary Santhi Kumari with district Collectors from the Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Secretariat, the Minister hailed the scheme as a proud milestone in Telangana’s welfare agenda.

“This program is effecting real change in people’s lives. We need to ensure this becomes a historic and inclusive endeavor,” he remarked.

Uttam Kumar Reddy highlighted that nearly 85 percent of the state’s impoverished population would benefit from this initiative. He warned against any delays or irregularities in rice distribution, stating, “Strict action will be enforced if any malpractices are detected. Everything must be executed flawlessly.”

He urged officials to maintain vigilant monitoring, ensure smooth transportation, and involve public representatives. He suggested that MLAs, MLCs, and MPs participate in the distribution process and share meals with beneficiaries to foster trust.

He revealed that Chief Minister Revanth Reddy will have lunch with a beneficiary in Bhadrachalam on April 6, coinciding with Rama Navami. Uttam Kumar Reddy also plans to dine with a PDS beneficiary in Suryapet.

The Minister recalled that previously, the government distributed coarse rice, which was unpopular among the poor. Despite an annual expenditure of Rs 10,665 crore, much of it was wasted. He noted that rice worth Rs 7,000 to Rs 8,000 crore was misappropriated every year.

“Following an in-depth review and various discussions with Chief Minister Revanth Reddy, we resolved to substitute coarse rice with fine rice,” he explained.

The initiative was launched on March 30 during Ugadi by Chief Minister Revanth Reddy from Huzurnagar constituency.

During the conference, district Collectors reported that distribution is proceeding smoothly in most regions, with over 99 percent coverage in several districts and positive public feedback.

Santhi Kumari instructed Collectors to combat misinformation regarding the scheme. She urged them to disseminate accurate information and showcase the program's success.

The Minister indicated that physical distribution of ration cards will commence soon. A Tricolour Card will be provided to Below Poverty Line (BPL) families, while Above Poverty Line (APL) families will receive a Green Card. He directed Collectors to perform thorough verifications to ensure no eligible individual is overlooked.

He added that Telangana had 89.73 lakh ration cards at its inception in 2014; however, only 49,479 new cards were issued during the past decade of BRS governance. Presently, under the Congress administration, both new card issuance and member additions are being expedited.

Currently, Telangana has approximately 90 lakh ration cards serving 2.85 crore people. An additional 30 lakh cards are anticipated to be issued following verification, bringing the total to 1 crore and the total beneficiaries to 3.10 crore.

“We will reach saturation level. No eligible family will be left behind,” Uttam Kumar Reddy assured.