Andhra Pradesh Government is contemplating introducing ration card portability which enable a consumer to draw his ration entitlement from anywhere from next financial year in the State.
Civil Supplies Minister Paritala Sunitha, who recently visited Chhattisgarh to study the public distribution system there, said the portability system was being tried on pilot basis in two districts in that State.
She said Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu was in favour of introducing portability system and the State government was also looking into its feasibility.
She said the proposed Aadhar-linked system would be of particular benefit to migrant people.
She said the gram panchayats play an important role in the PDS programme in Chattisgarh.
Ms. Sunitha admitted that there was delay in implementing ‘Anna Canteen’ scheme but asserted that it would be implemented as it was a good programme.
Regarding the special package of five food items for festivals to be given for BPL families, Ms. Sunitha said that the scheme was expected to cost the State exchequer Rs.150 crore.
According to official sources, the details of the package would be finalised at a meeting with the Chief Minister on Saturday.
