In a proactive move aimed at ensuring food security, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has directed the Food Supplies and Consumer Welfare Department to distribute three months’ rice quota in advance to Public Distribution System (PDS) beneficiaries across the state.

The chief minister’s office (CMO) issued a statement on Tuesday, confirming this directive following a comprehensive review of the PDS rice distribution mechanism. This measure comes in the wake of concerns raised over delayed rice distribution in certain areas, particularly at Mandipanka village in Daringbadi block, Kandhamal district.

Chief Minister Majhi emphasized the importance of timely food distribution to prevent any hardships faced by vulnerable communities. Officials have been instructed to expedite the process and ensure that the rice supply reaches beneficiaries without further delays.

The state government’s decision aims to streamline the distribution process and provide relief to people dependent on the PDS for their essential food needs, especially as reports of distribution challenges emerge.