A new ration distribution app will display dealer profiles with photos, delivery records, and real-time stock information

Metro India News | AMARAVATI

Andhra Pradesh is set to resume ration distribution through fair price shops from June 1, with all logistical and digital arrangements in place, said Civil Supplies Minister Nadendla Manohar on Thursday.

Addressing the media after inspecting the trial run at Ration Shop No. 218 in Madhura Nagar, Vijayawada, the minister said that the government is committed to ensuring hassle-free delivery of essential commodities to ration cardholders. “To ease the burden on beneficiaries, ration distribution will now happen directly at fair price shops instead of relying on mobile vehicles, which are unpredictable and inconvenient,” Manohar stated.

Ration shops will be open from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., from the 1st to the 15th of every month, even on Sunday. Senior citizens aged above 65, persons with disabilities, and elderly couples will receive doorstep delivery of rations between June 1 and June 5. Lists of eligible beneficiaries have already been shared with respective shop dealers.

Those who have shifted homes or regions can avail of ration supplies from their nearest fair price shop through the portability system. The government has introduced a new e-POS software that enables fingerprint and iris-based authentication, ensuring transparency and eliminating fraud. A new ration distribution app will display dealer profiles with photos, delivery records, and real-time stock information. If overcrowding is detected at any location, alerts will be generated for timely intervention.

“Ration dealers must uphold the trust of the government. You are the face of the public distribution system. Distribute rations with fairness and dignity,” Minister Manohar urged. He emphasized cleanliness in shop surroundings, proper display of stock boards and price lists, and accurate weighing of goods. He also encouraged the use of WhatsApp groups to keep cardholders informed and alternative methods for delivery in case of technical issues.

A special service camp is being held to address any repairs related to e-POS and weighing machines, he added. Minister Manohar, along with Civil Supplies Commissioner Saurabh Gaur, also inspected the e-POS and weighing machine services camp at the Vijayawada Sub-Collector’s office.