Odisha Introduces India's First Round-the-Clock Grain Dispensing Machine: Annapurti Grain ATM
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Event | Odisha introduces India's first round-the-clock grain dispensing machine. |
| Name | Annapurti Grain ATM |
| Objective | Transform the Public Distribution System (PDS) for ration cardholders. |
| Launch | Officially launched by Food Supplies and Consumer Welfare Minister Krushna Chandra Patra. |
| Location | Warehouse in Mancheswar, Bhubaneswar. |
| Collaboration | Developed in collaboration with the World Food Programme. |
| Operation | Dispenses up to 50 kg of rice in five minutes with a 0.01% error rate. |
| Usage Process | Ration card number input, biometric verification (fingerprint/iris scan), dispenses up to 25 kg of rice. |
| Benefits | Reduces queues, minimizes theft/black marketing, ensures accuracy, 24/7 access. |
| Expansion Plans | Launched in Bhubaneswar; plans to extend to all 30 districts of Odisha. Potential expansion under the One Nation One Ration Card scheme. |
| Energy Efficiency | Consumes 0.6 watts per hour; can be connected to solar panels. |
| Additional Measures | Removal of 16 lakh ghost ration card holders, Aadhar-based e-KYC verification, individual ration cards for separated individuals, home delivery for elderly/disabled, special biometric system for beneficiaries with thumb impression issues. |