Puducherry Revives Ration Shops With Free Rice and Sugar Initiative

Puducherry Lieutenant Governor K Kailashnathan expressed gratitude to PM Narendra Modi for approving a proposal to supply free rice and sugar via ration shops. The initiative replaces the Direct Benefit Transfer system, ensuring 6.34 lakh families receive essentials ahead of Diwali and aims to prevent misuse of cash transfers.

Puducherry Lieutenant Governor K Kailashnathan has extended his gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for endorsing the Union Territory administration's initiative to provide free rice and sugar through ration shops. This decision replaces the previous cash equivalent payments under the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system.

During a ceremony marking the launch of this revised distribution method, Kailashnathan highlighted the request from Chief Minister N Rangasamy to revert to in-kind distribution. Explaining the rationale, he noted that monetary credits were often diverted for unintended uses, rather than purchasing rice, prompting discussions with the prime minister.

The plan, which benefits 6.34 lakh families, aims to ensure that these basic staples are put directly into the hands of the needy, particularly ahead of Diwali. Official sources have confirmed the reopening of all ration shops in the Union Territory, which had been closed for eight years.

(With inputs from agencies.)