Telangana turns the spotlight on PDS by putting an end to supply of fine rice to FCI

Telangana has stopped the supply of 'Sannabiyyam', which is basically a fine-grain rice, from Custom Milling Programme (CMR) to the Food Corporation of India (FCI). This is actually a step meant to be given due importance; it allows the grain to only reach the Public Distribution System (PDS) in the state, thus reaching the rightful households that need it the most.

Telangana Halts Fine Rice Delivery for Public Welfare

The State Civil Supplies Commissioner, DS Chouhan has reportedly announced that fine rice, which is one variety critical to most welfare schemes, will be used only for PDS purposes. Allocation plan targets 21 lakh metric tonnes of 'Sannabiyyam' in the entirety. This is segregated into 12.92 lakh metric tonnes for the central pool and 8.58 lakh metric tonnes for the state pool.

This transformation focuses on making the procurement process seamless for the distribution of rice under PDS - the lifeline of nearly one-third of the population of Telangana. In fact, the state has procured over 8 lakh metric tonnes of paddy in the Kharif marketing season so far, and more than 1.1 lakh metric tonnes of 'Sanna Rakam' paddy are being directly taken to the rice mills for processing.

Quality and Fortified Rice

The government's utmost focus is that only quality, fortified rice is supposed to be delivered to the consumers. Under this program, the rice mills were asked to supply 'Sannabiyyam' enriched with vitamins and minerals. This fortified rice is mixed with the fortified rice kernels (FRK) to deal with the micronutrient deficiency and thereby enhancing the nutritional value of rice consumed by the public.

Tight restriction has been put upon the procurement and supply of rice. The mills are asked to sell only fortified rice; the bags shall be correctly labeled and stenciled in the depots of the CSC. Specifications have also been given in order that the sold rice is of good quality. For instance, small broken grains shall not be more than 1%, and mineral matter content not to exceed 0.2%. Impurities of animal origin shall not exceed 0.10% by weight. The procurement process would now cater to raw as well as parboiled rice, while the maximum moisture content will still be 15 percent.

This further ensures the successful operation of all welfare schemes like PDS without any interruption. An attempt by Telangana government to earmark the rice locally might help increase food security for many in the state.

Fine rice delivery to FCI is halted and concentrates on the Public Distribution System of its own. It's a strategic decision by the Telangana state towards food security and nutrition to its citizens as the government promises. Procurement and distribution of fortified rice continue to be done with quality control now being an important aspect of this endeavor.

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