Now not only money but also ration will be available from ATM. The Food and Public Distribution Department of the Government of India has launched Annapurna ATM under a new initiative, which is a big step towards making ration distribution digital and transparent across the country. This machine works like a bank ATM, but instead of cash, it provides grains like wheat, rice and sugar.
50 kg grain in 5 minutes, 24×7 service
Beneficiaries can get their share of ration anytime through ration card number and biometric verification from Annapurna ATM. The machine is operational 24 hours a day, seven days a week and distributes up to 50 kg of grain in 5 minutes. This saves up to 70% of time and eliminates the problem of long queues.
How does Annapurna ATM work?
To use the Annapurna ATM machine, first of all the beneficiary has to enter his ration card number on the screen of the machine. After this, he is identified through fingerprint or iris scan. On completion of identification, grain options appear on the screen, from which the beneficiary can select according to his need. After selection, the machine automatically distributes grains like wheat, rice or sugar in the prescribed quantity. At the end of distribution, a receipt is also received, which contains complete information about the grains received.
Solution to the problems of ration shops
There are more than 5 lakh government ration shops in the country, where during grain distribution, beneficiaries have to wait in long queues, grain is wasted and many times complaints of irregularities or corruption also come to the fore. Annapurti ATM has emerged as an effective solution to overcome all these problems. This digital machine ensures fast distribution with accurate weighing, which reduces waiting and wastage of grains to a great extent. Due to its strong iron structure, this machine keeps the grain safe from rats or other animals. Also, its automatic operation brings transparency in the distribution process, which also effectively controls problems like corruption and black marketing.
Where will you get these ATMs?
It started in Odisha and is now being installed in states like Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Uttarakhand and Meghalaya. You can get information about Annapurna ATMs in your area from the Mera Ration 2.0 app, block or district food office, or the state’s toll-free number.
Future plans
This machine consumes 0.6 watts per hour of energy and can also be connected to a solar panel. The government plans to implement it across the country under the One Nation One Ration Card scheme. Annapurna ATM is a revolutionary step towards modernizing India’s Public Distribution System (PDS). This will not only strengthen food security but will also be a solid initiative towards Digital India.