Hyderabad: The Telangana Civil Supplies Department has announced that the ongoing distribution of three-month quota of ration rice will continue till June 30, assuring beneficiaries that no one will be left out. Officials have urged cardholders not to rush or panic, as adequate time and stock remain for all eligible households.
Speaking to reporters, District Civil Supplies Officer Ramesh said ration shops across the state will remain open during both morning and evening hours to ease crowding. “We’ve already completed distribution to 45 per cent of cardholders in the district,” he said, adding that figures in the suburban areas under Ranga Reddy district are slightly higher, with 50 per cent of the distribution already covered.
Authorities have issued a stern warning against illegal sale of subsidised rice. “If anyone is caught selling ration rice, their card will be cancelled immediately and legal action will follow,” said Ramesh, emphasising that daily field inspections are underway to prevent diversion of stock. “We’re ensuring ration reaches the rightful beneficiaries without any leakages.”
However, the large-scale rollout has also brought logistical challenges. With both fine rice and a bulk three-month supply being handed out together, crowds have swelled at ration shops. The recent introduction of the Centre’s Smart PDS system has also led to delays, officials noted. Under the revamped system, beneficiaries now have to complete biometric authentication at the point-of-sale (PoS) terminal every month to access their quota—slowing things down and adding a layer of hassle.
Still, officials insist the situation is manageable. They say steps are underway to make the distribution smoother, and they’re asking the public to be patient, work with ration shop staff, and steer clear of crowding to keep things moving efficiently.