Innovative 24/7 Grain ATM Launched in Bhubaneswar

A pioneering grain dispensing machine, known as the 'Grain ATM,' was inaugurated in Bhubaneswar. This machine enables public distribution system (PDS) beneficiaries to access their entitlements round-the-clock. Launched by Food Supplies and Consumer Welfare Minister Krushna Chandra Patra and WFP's Nozomi Hashimoto, the initiative aims to enhance nutritional security in Odisha.

A pioneering grain dispensing machine, dubbed as the 'Grain ATM,' was officially inaugurated in Bhubaneswar on Thursday. This groundbreaking initiative allows public distribution system (PDS) beneficiaries to access their entitlements 24/7, according to an official statement.

The Annapurti 'Grain ATM' was unveiled by Food Supplies and Consumer Welfare Minister Krushna Chandra Patra, in collaboration with Nozomi Hashimoto, the deputy country director of the World Food Programme (WFP) in India. 'This significant initiative, undertaken in partnership with the WFP, aims to achieve nutritional security in Odisha with a strong focus on food security,' remarked Patra.

The Grain ATMs are set to be installed across the state, providing consistent access to food grains for PDS beneficiaries under the National Food Security Act (NFSA). Patra also noted that plans include setting up at least one such facility in each district and subsequently in every block throughout the state.

(With inputs from agencies.)