Minister Reddy Pushes for Transparency in Free Rice Distribution

Uttam Kumar Reddy, Minister of Civil Supply and Drainage, Advocates Transparent Oversight of Free Rice Distribution

Hyderabad December 12

In a bid to enhance transparency in the government’s rice distribution to the underprivileged, Minister Uttam Kumar Reddy emphasizes the need for a thorough examination of the impact of the free rice initiative. The government is currently providing 1.8 metric tons of rice at no cost to the citizens.

However, Minister Reddy stresses the importance of ensuring that this substantial quantity of rice is being effectively utilized by the intended beneficiaries. While the government is distributing the collected rice for free, there is a concern that if it remains unconsumed by the needy, the efficacy of this commendable initiative could be compromised.

Reddy points out the necessity of identifying and rectifying any flaws in the system rather than succumbing to complacency. He urges a comprehensive study on how the rice distribution scheme can be optimized for the benefit of the impoverished.

To enforce accountability, the Minister proposes random checks on rice recipients throughout the state, actively seeking feedback from the people to gauge the practical impact of the initiative. The objective is to make the rice distribution more purposeful and directly beneficial to the citizens.

Moreover, Reddy insists on preventing any misuse of the distributed rice, emphasizing that it should only be utilized for consumption by the intended recipients. He queries the delays in the collection of rice from millers and demands detailed information on the grain purchased from farmers by the Civil Supply Department in the state.

In essence, Minister Uttam Kumar Reddy advocates a proactive approach to ensure the effectiveness and integrity of the free rice scheme, aligning it more closely with the genuine needs of the people it aims to serve.

“Civil Supply Overhaul: Reddy’s 100-Day Plan to Boost Procurement and Tackle Financial Challenges”

In a significant development, Uttam Kumar Reddy, overseeing the crucial Civil Supply Department in the state, has outlined ambitious plans for the coming days. The department, pivotal for procurement from farmers, aims to implement a 500-unit increase in both gas cylinders and paddy procurement within the next 100 days.

Emphasizing the need for quality ration supply, Reddy highlighted the state’s commitment to improving the quality of the rice provided, surpassing the 5 kg rice allocation by the Center. Notably, the state had been distributing one kilogram of BRS to every individual, free of charge.

Concerns have arisen regarding the diversion of PDS rice from its intended beneficiaries, prompting calls for a reassessment by the Commissioner to ensure that beneficiaries receive consumable rice.

With a staggering 2.8 crore beneficiaries in the state, the Civil Supply Department is poised to take comprehensive measures for procurement, with a focus on channeling funds directly to farmers promptly.

Highlighting financial challenges, Reddy revealed that the department inherited a substantial loan of 56 thousand crores from the previous government, underscoring the need for urgent financial support.

The Civil Supply Corporation currently holds 90 lakh metric tonnes of grain, while millers possess paddy rice worth 18 thousand crores. Discussions in the cabinet will determine the course of action in addressing this situation.

Despite possessing 1.17 lakh metric tonnes of grain, the Civil Supply Corporation faces substantial losses amounting to 11 thousand crores. Reddy acknowledged flaws in the nine-and-a-half-year-old BRS rule and the necessity to address the demand for new ration cards, with plans to bring the matter to the attention of the Chief Minister.

Overall, the state’s various departments are grappling with financial constraints, reflecting a challenging economic scenario that necessitates strategic interventions.

Telangana Minister Uttam Kumar Reddy Unveils Plans for Affordable Gas Cylinders and Paddy Bonus

In a press conference held today, Minister for Irrigation, CAD, Food & Civil Supplies, Capt N Uttam Kumar Reddy, reaffirmed the Telangana Congress Government’s commitment to delivering on key electoral promises. The guarantees include providing gas cylinders for Rs 500 and a bonus of Rs 500 per quintal for paddy, both slated for implementation within the first 100 days of the Congress government’s tenure.

Key Points:

1. Public Distribution System (PDS) Focus:
   Uttam Kumar Reddy emphasized the vital role of the Consumer Affairs, Food and Civil Supplies Department, particularly in managing the Public Distribution System (PDS). The department is crucial in serving the state’s 2.9 crore population, especially the underprivileged.
2. Ration Card Issues and Quality of PDS Rice:
   The Minister highlighted concerns about the quality of rice distributed through the PDS. Approximately 90% of the rice, provided jointly by the Central and State Governments for Rs 39.02 per kg, is reportedly not edible. Uttam Kumar Reddy directed officials to conduct a thorough study on rice quality and ensure the improvement of PDS rice provided to beneficiaries.
3. Financial Health of Civil Supplies Corporation:
   Uttam Kumar Reddy accused the previous government of financial mismanagement, leading to significant debts in the Civil Supplies Department. Outstanding debts amount to Rs 52,067.03 Crore, with a loss of Rs 3,645.25 crore solely due to interest on loans. The Minister hinted at potential overhauls to address the situation.
4. Mahalaxmi Scheme:
   The Minister elaborated on the Mahalaxmi Scheme, aiming to provide gas cylinders for Rs 500. The exact number of beneficiaries is being finalized, and the scheme is expected to cost approximately Rs 3,000 – 4,000 crore annually to the state’s exchequer.
5. Public Hearing and Accountability:
   Uttam Kumar Reddy directed officials to identify and rectify lapses in the functioning of the Civil Supplies Corporation, particularly in managing Integrated Cooperative Development Project (IKP) centers. He expressed the need for transparent procurement from farmers and prompt disbursal of funds into their accounts.
6. Criticism of Previous Government:
   The Minister criticized the previous government, alleging financial mismanagement across various departments. He cited debts in the Energy Department, pending bills in the Irrigation Department, and significant loans in the Civil Supplies Department as evidence of the previous government’s shortcomings.

In conclusion, Uttam Kumar Reddy expressed the Congress Government’s determination to fulfill electoral promises, urging officials to work towards efficiency and transparency in the implementation of welfare schemes.

Listen to the audio version of this article for more details.