Kerala to introduce grain ATMs for rice and wheat distribution, following Odisha model

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Rice and wheat may soon be available through ATMs in Kerala, similar to cash withdrawals. The state Food Department has started initial steps to install grain ATMs (grain dispensing machines) across the state. The machines will be set up at selected ration shops or Supplyco outlets. Kerala will adopt the model successfully implemented in Odisha, where a 24-hour grain ATM is already functioning in Bhubaneswar.

Consumers will have to enter their ration card number or Aadhaar number at the grain ATM and verify their identity through fingerprint scanning using the Point of Sale (PoS) biometric system. After verification, they can collect their allotted quantity of rice and wheat. The machine can dispense up to 50 kg of grains within five minutes.

The Odisha government introduced the country's first grain ATM with the support of the United Nations World Food Programme. Haryana and Bihar have also implemented the project on a trial basis. If the scheme is expanded across Kerala, it could impact the functioning of ration shops. The state currently has 13,915 ration shops.

Push towards 'One Nation, One Ration Card'

The grain ATM project could help speed up the implementation of the central government's 'One Nation, One Ration Card' scheme. Under the system, ration card holders will be able to collect grains from anywhere in the country. The initiative is expected to benefit migrant workers and help address complaints related to weighing irregularities at ration shops.

"The project is being launched on a trial basis. It will not affect ration shop owners."
- Anoop Jacob,
Food Minister