Distribution Of Smart Ration Cards Launched In AP

Vijayawada:In a festive spirit, the Andhra Pradesh government has launched the statewide distribution of smart ration cards, covering nearly 4.42 crore beneficiaries on Monday.

Civil supplies minister Nadendla Manohar handed over cards to eligible families during a programme held here and Penamaluru. He said this underscored the government’s commitment to doorstep delivery of welfare scheme benefits.

The smart ration card will enable citizens to access ration supplies from any part of the state.

Manohar said 5.90 lakh beneficiaries in NTR district and 5.17 lakh in Krishna district were among those receiving the new smart cards. He said the state government has set a target to complete door-to-door distribution by Sept 15.

The minister stated, “The smart card system is designed to enhance transparency. By scanning the QR code on the card, officials can instantly access details of when a beneficiary collected their ration supplies. All 29,000 fair price shops in the state have upgraded PoS (Point of Sale) machines to support the new system. Essential commodities such as Red gram, palm oil and wheat will be distributed based on household needs.”

He said discussions were under way with the CM regarding the establishment of sub-ration depots in remote and tribal areas. The beneficiaries can apply for changes or corrections to their cards at local secretariats, where staff will verify details on the ground. For details, the toll-free helpline 1967 may be contacted.

MLAs Gadde Rammohan and Bode Prasad, civil supplies commissioner Saurabh Gaur and local representatives were present.