Metro India News | AMARAVATI

The Andhra Pradesh government is on the verge of making a key decision regarding the future of Mobile Dispensing Units (MDUs) used for doorstep ration delivery. Civil Supplies Minister Nadendla Manohar announced recently that a final call on whether to continue or discontinue the MDU system would be made in a few days. The announcement comes amid growing indications that the state may revert to distributing ration supplies solely through fair price shops starting June 1.

Ever since the new coalition government assumed office, there have been growing indications that the MDU system — launched under the banner of “ration at your doorstep” by the former administration — might be scrapped. Civil Supplies Minister Nadendla Manohar himself had earlier criticized the initiative, alleging that it had failed to serve its intended purpose and had instead morphed into an inefficient “street ration delivery” mechanism.

Minister Manohar remarked that rather than providing convenience to the public, the MDUs had imposed an additional financial burden on the government without delivering proportional benefits. His comments echoed widespread criticism that the scheme had not reached its full potential and had become more of a logistical challenge than a solution.

Prior to making a final decision, the government had even sought feedback from ration cardholders across the state, asking whether they preferred the traditional ration shop model or found the MDU vehicles more beneficial. However, responses reportedly varied, with no clear consensus emerging from the public.

In a significant development, Minister Nadendla Manohar addressed the issue directly while participating in a program in Tenali, Guntur district. During the event, a local woman raised a concern that she often missed the MDU vehicle due to timing issues and was unable to collect her rations, as the vehicle did not return for a second round. Responding to her complaint, the Minister stated that a final decision on whether to continue or discontinue the MDU vehicles would be taken in a few days.

The minister’s remarks have added weight to the growing belief that the government is leaning toward a return to the conventional ration distribution system through fair price shops. If confirmed, the move would signify a major policy shift and a rollback of one of the flagship initiatives of the previous administration.

As of now, the state awaits an official announcement, with ration cardholders, dealers, and civil supply officials closely monitoring developments. The government’s decision in the coming days is likely to have a significant impact on how ration supplies are delivered across Andhra Pradesh in the future.