Odisha to Expand Rice ATMs to Four More Districts

The Odisha government has announced plans to set up Rice ATMs in four additional districts—Jharsuguda, Nabarangpur, Keonjhar, and Dhenkanal—marking a significant step in modernising the public distribution system.

Food Supplies and Consumer Welfare Minister Krushna Chandra Patra made the announcement in the Assembly while responding to a query from MLA Goutam Buddha Das.

The first Rice ATM was launched in Mancheswar, Bhubaneswar, in July 2024. Since its inception, over 20,217 beneficiaries have withdrawn rice amounting to 3,805 quintals through the automated system.

Officials say the initiative aims to enhance transparency, efficiency, and accountability in ration distribution, reducing manual errors and ensuring food security for vulnerable communities.

The government plans to gradually extend Rice ATMs to all districts, strengthening Odisha’s commitment to accessible and equitable food distribution.