Centre Praises Nadendla Manohars Plan To Ap Civil Supplies Reforms Strengthen 29000 Ration Shops

New Delhi : Minister Nadendla Manohar said that the central government has appreciated the reforms being undertaken in the Andhra Pradesh Civil Supplies Department. The minister said that a pilot project of steam rice has been started in the Public Distribution System (PDS) in Kakinada. The center has given permission to procure an additional 20 thousand metric tons of parboiled rice. He said that the ‘Me Mart’ concept will be implemented through ration shops. He explained that programs are being taken up to sell quality rice at low prices in farmers’ markets. The minister said that the government’s goal is to provide golden variety rice at Rs. 40 per kg across AP. He also revealed that a proposal to provide 500 grams of kandipappu to ration card holders is being considered. He said that the center has given the green signal for the release of pending funds of Rs. 281 crore for the Civil Supplies Department. He said that RFID technology is being implemented for tracking grain. He said that a pilot project is being taken up for the distribution of subsidies through the digital wallet system. The minister said that the Center has agreed in principle to increase the commission of fair price shop dealers. He said that the 29 thousand ration shops in the state will be further strengthened. He said that the government is focused on stabilizing rice prices in the state. He revealed that discussions have been held with the millers and a decision has been taken to keep the price of a kilo of rice at Rs. 52. Minister Nadendla Manohar said that in the coming days, golden variety rice will be made available across the state.