Andhra Pradesh government mulls introducing direct benefit transfer for public distribution system beneficiaries
Vijayawada: Taking a serious view of the misuse of the public distribution system (PDS) rice, chief minister
N Chandrababu Naidu
on Saturday said that the state govt is considering implementing direct benefit transfer (DBT) instead of providing rice through the public distribution system (PDS).
Naidu stated that the 'ration mafia' has deeply infiltrated the system and is attempting to influence him, warning that strong action will be taken against them. Under the proposed DBT system, money will be directly deposited into the accounts of beneficiaries, allowing them to purchase essentials at their convenience.
The chief minister also outlined plans for doorstep delivery of rations for people above 65 years and differently-abled individuals, while others can collect their rations from nearby shops with the flexibility to choose their preferred outlet.
Naidu expressed concerns over the increasing incidence of diabetes in the Konaseema region, attributing it to high rice consumption.
During a monthly pension program at Cheyyeru village in Dr B R Ambedkar Konaseema district, Naidu interacted with women NREGS workers and extended financial assistance to two families who lost earning members due to diabetes-related complications. He also promised to provide employment to their daughters.
The chief minister highlighted the govt's focus on creating 20 lakh job opportunities for youth and noted that the state is on track to achieve this goal, with ₹8.5 lakh crore investments already secured in the first year. Naidu also outlined various welfare schemes launched by the NDA government, including pension enhancements, free gas cylinders, financial assistance to fishermen, and power subsidies in the first year and assured to implement poll promises like Thalliki Vandanam, Annadata Sukhibhava and free bus for women by August 15.
Naidu expressed concerns over the declining population and urged people to have at least two children. He said that despite having financial troubles, AP is ahead of all states in giving the highest pension to the poor. The previous govt destroyed every system, and AP was blacklisted by the Union govt. However, we restored 94 centrally sponsored schemes and cleared more than Rs 7,500 crore pending PF arrears to employees.
Referring to the controversy over Pastor Praveen Pagadala's death, Naidu said that propaganda machines are trying hard to defame the govt. Similar attempts were made in TTD as if something happened. Naidu warned of stringent action against those making false allegations.
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