Ration distribution to begin from June 1 across State: Minister

Minister for Civil Supplies Nadendla Manohar inspecting a ration shop at Madhuranagar in Vijayawada on Thursday. | Photo Credit: G.N. RAO

Minister for Civil Supplies Nadendla Manohar on Thursday announced that the distribution of essential commodities in fair price shops across the State would begin on June 1.

The Minister, along with Civil Supplies Commissioner Saurabh Gaur, inspected the functioning of ePOS (Electronic Point of Sale) machines, electronic weighing scales (kata), and the quality of grains during a trial run of ration shop no. 218 in Madhuranagar, Pappulamill. 

Addressing the media, the Minister said that the distribution will be conducted across 29,760 fair price shops. “From June 1, commodities will be distributed between 8 a.m. and 12 p.m. and again from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. to ensure that the service is accessible to all people and curb rice smuggling in Andhra Pradesh,” he said. 

Mr. Manohar said that the ration shops will remain open every day, including Sundays, from June 1 to 15. If market prices rise, we will supply essential items at subsidised rates through these shops.  

He said that the government has put an end to the old practice of people waiting endlessly for ration vans. Now, beneficiaries can collect their commodities at their convenience over a 15-day window.

“There are 1.46 crore ration card holders in the State and approximately 4.40 lakh will get the supply of essential commodities in the initial phase. We will also provide home delivery services for the elderly and persons with disabilities,” he added. 

Commissioner Saurabh Gaur noted that photographs and contact details of all ration shop dealers have been updated in a digital app to promote transparency and accountability. “The app will be launched soon,” he confirmed. 

Meanwhile, addressing recent concerns about the transfer of assets to Telangana, Mr. Manohar clarified to The Hindu, “This move is purely for administrative efficiency. The building transferred was unused and will not affect food security or give any advantage to Telangana.” 

The writer M.G. Preethi is an intern with The Hindu-Vijayawada

Published - May 30, 2025 08:27 am IST