Amaravati: Andhra Pradesh Civil Supplies Minister Nadendla Manohar has alleged a major scandal in the procurement of Mobile Dispensing Units (MDU) for ration door delivery during the previous YSRCP government. He stated that the flawed system implemented by the past administration has led to discrepancies in the distribution of rice meant for the poor, fueling the ration mafia.
Addressing a press conference at the Secretariat on Tuesday, Manohar claimed that ongoing financial commitments stemming from agreements made under the YSRCP regime are hindering corrective measures. “Despite knowing about the encroachments, we are unable to act due to previous contracts, and we are still paying Rs 27,000 per month for each vehicle,” he revealed.
The minister announced that the e-KYC process for ration cards will be completed by April-end, following which new QR-coded ration cards, similar to ATM cards, will be issued. Unlike the previous government’s ration cards featuring the then CM Jagan Mohan Reddy’s photo, the new cards will not carry any political leader’s image.
8,279 Crores Paid to Farmers for Kharif Procurement
Manohar highlighted that under the coalition government, 35.93 lakh tonnes of grain were procured from 5.60 lakh farmers during the 2024-25 Kharif season, compared to just 29 lakh tonnes under the YSRCP in 2023-24. “Within 24 hours of procurement, Rs 8,279 crore was credited directly into farmers’ accounts. We have also set a target of collecting 10 lakh tonnes of grain in the upcoming Rabi season, with procurement starting from April 1,” he added.
Second Free Gas Cylinder Under Deepam-2 Scheme
The minister also announced the commencement of bookings for the second free LPG cylinder under the Deepam-2 scheme. “By March 31, we have provided free gas cylinders to 99.03 lakh beneficiaries across the state, depositing Rs 760 crore in their accounts. Additionally, we have issued 2 lakh new LPG connections. Our goal is to increase the number of beneficiaries for the second cylinder to one crore,” he stated.
Manohar further mentioned that mid-day meals and small rice distribution for hostel students will commence from June.
