Ration card holders, especially those with Antyodaya cards, have reason to rejoice as the Uttar Pradesh government has announced subsidized rates for sugar along with wheat, rice, and millets. Until March 29, eligible households will receive the benefit of this scheme. Under this initiative, three kilograms of sugar per card will be provided at a rate of Rs. 18 per kilogram.
The distribution of government-subsidized food items will take place until the aforementioned date, ensuring that households can avail themselves of the benefits within the stipulated timeframe. Shops offering these items at appropriate rates will remain open from 6 AM to 9 PM during distribution days.
The Benefit Breakdown
In accordance with the directives of the Food and Supplies Department, eligible households with ration cards will receive the following quantities of food grains per unit associated with each card: one kilogram of wheat, two kilograms of rice, one kilogram of millets, and based on availability, either one kilogram of barley or one kilogram of corn.
Antyodaya ration card holders will receive 14 kilograms of wheat, 14 kilograms of rice, 5 kilograms of millets, and 1 kilogram each of barley and corn per card.
For households with ration cards other than Antyodaya cards, from January to March 2024, three kilograms of sugar per card will be provided at a subsidized rate of Rs. 18 per kilogram. The distribution of government-subsidized food items will continue until March 29.
Distribution and Accountability
The distribution of food items to cardholders who are unable to obtain them through Aadhaar authentication will be facilitated via mobile OTP verification. Additionally, the portability transaction feature will be available for free distribution, allowing vendors to conduct transactions up to the limit of their available stock.
In case beneficiaries do not receive the intended benefits, they can lodge complaints with the District Supply Officer or the Regional Food Officer. Any irregularities identified will be subject to appropriate action against the responsible parties.
Previous Initiatives
In previous months, the state government had announced the distribution of 10 kilograms of millets alongside wheat and rice in ration supplies during the winter season. However, starting from February, the allocation of wheat and rice in the free ration has been reduced, with millets being included in the distribution.
Until now, beneficiaries have been receiving 35 kilograms of ration every month, consisting of 14 kilograms of wheat and 21 kilograms of rice. However, following the directives of the Food Department, the distribution now includes 14 kilograms of wheat, 10 kilograms of millets, and 11 kilograms of rice since February.
This distribution scheme aims to provide essential food items at affordable rates to eligible households, ensuring food security and welfare for the citizens of Uttar Pradesh. The provision of subsidized sugar and other food grains until March 29 underscores the government’s commitment to supporting vulnerable populations and promoting their well-being.