Bhubaneswar, (Reporterspen), Aug 8: Odisha’s first Grain ATM for Public Distribution System (PDS) rice was inaugurated by Food Supplies and Consumer Welfare Minister Krushna Chandra Patra on Thursday at a warehouse in the Mancheswar area of Bhubaneswar.
This Automated Multi-Commodity Grain Dispensing Machine has been introduced under the Union Government’s ‘Annapurti’ initiative and is set to be expanded to all 30 districts across the state.
To use the ATM, ration card holders enter their ration card number on a touchscreen display. After biometric authentication of a family member listed on the card, the machine dispenses 25 kg of rice within 35 seconds. The rice is collected in a gunny bag attached to the machine, which has a capacity of 2 metric tons.
For any issues, beneficiaries can contact a helpline desk, which promises resolution within one to two days. Additionally, an operator and an in-charge are stationed at the ATM to assist users. This new facility serves as an alternative to traditional fair price shops, aiming to streamline and improve the distribution of food grains.
