Hunger Games: Karnataka's Ration Dealers Face Dire Straits as Commission Payments Freeze for 5 Months!
In Karnataka, the government’s Anna Bhagya scheme aims to provide free food grains to Below Poverty Line (BPL) and Antyodaya cardholders. However, ration dealers are now facing dire conditions due to a five-month delay in commission payments from the state. This situation threatens to disrupt the distribution of essential food supplies. With rising frustrations, dealers are contemplating halting rations if payments aren’t released soon. Here’s a detailed look at the unfolding crisis:
Objective of the Scheme: The Anna Bhagya scheme was initiated to ensure no one goes hungry, offering free food grains to vulnerable populations.
Current Crisis: Ration dealers are struggling due to the state government’s failure to disburse commission payments for the last five months.
Government's Responsibility: The Siddaramaiah government promised financial support for executing key guarantee schemes but has fallen short on fund allocation.
Payment Delays: Dealers are entitled to ₹150 per quintal of food grains distributed, which amounts to approximately ₹4 crore monthly. However, only two months' worth of payments have been received since March.
Rationing Details: Instead of the promised ten kilograms of rice, the government has only been able to provide three kilograms of rice and two kilograms of jowar, with the remaining amount intended for bank transfer—an arrangement that has seen delays.
Impact on Ration Dealers: The commission is critical for covering shop rent, staff salaries, and personal living expenses, leaving dealers in a precarious financial situation.
Complaints from Beneficiaries: Many beneficiaries report that the promised cash transfers of ₹170 have not been received, leaving them reliant on the ration shop for basic necessities.
Calls for Direct Relief: Beneficiaries argue for the provision of essential commodities like cooking oil and pulses directly through ration shops, rather than cash transfers that are often delayed.
Threat of Halting Distribution: Dealers have warned the government that if commissions are not disbursed soon, they may stop distributing rations altogether, impacting thousands of families relying on these supplies.
Urgent Government Response Needed: There is an urgent need for the state government to address these issues and ensure timely payments to ration dealers to maintain the integrity of the Anna Bhagya scheme.
