India First Rice ATM Launched in Odisha, know complete details

We’re all familiar with using ATMs to withdraw cash by inserting a card and entering a PIN. But now, there’s a new type of ATM that allows ration card beneficiaries to withdraw rice, Odisha’s Food Supplies and Consumer Welfare Minister, Krishna Chandra Patra, has inaugurated India’s first Rice ATM, a groundbreaking initiative designed to streamline the distribution of rationed rice.

The Rice ATM allows ration cardholders to withdraw up to 25 kilograms of rice in a single transaction. To access the rice, users need to enter their ration card number into the machine. The ATM is also equipped with biometric verification, ensuring that only authorized beneficiaries can withdraw rice, significantly reducing the likelihood of fraud.

Combating Fraud and Saving Time:

According to Minister Patra, the Rice ATM has been successfully tested for ration cardholders in Odisha. This is the first initiative of its kind in the country. With the Rice ATM, beneficiaries no longer need to stand in long queues to collect their rationed rice. Additionally, it helps curb fraud by ensuring that only legitimate beneficiaries receive the correct amount of rice. Minister Patra also mentioned that if the pilot project proves successful, Rice ATMs will be installed at district headquarters across the state, ensuring that beneficiaries receive accurately weighed rice.

Launched in Bhubaneswar, with Plans for Statewide Expansion:

The Rice ATM was first launched in Bhubaneswar as a pilot project, with plans to expand the initiative across all 30 districts of Odisha. If successful, this model could be rolled out to other states under the One Nation, One Ration Card scheme. In 2021, the Odisha government signed partnership agreements with the World Food Programme, covering various initiatives, including the distribution system, paddy procurement, Grain ATMs, and smart mobile storage units.

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