Odisha has inaugurated its first 24×7 grain dispensing machine, named the Annapurti ‘Grain ATM’, in Bhubaneswar. This innovative machine aims to revolutionize access to public distribution system (PDS) entitlements by allowing beneficiaries to retrieve their grain allocations at any time of the day.

The Grain ATM was officially launched by Krushna Chandra Patra, Food Supplies and Consumer Welfare Minister, alongside Nozomi Hashimoto, Deputy Country Director of the World Food Programme (WFP) in India. This initiative marks a significant milestone in the state’s efforts to enhance food security and nutritional access.

Minister Patra highlighted the importance of this project, stating, “This is a significant initiative in partnership with the WFP to achieve nutritional security in the state, which is focused on food security.”

The Annapurti Grain ATM represents a major step forward in modernizing the PDS system, making it more accessible and efficient for beneficiaries. The machine’s 24×7 availability ensures that individuals can access their entitlements at their convenience, reducing wait times and improving overall service delivery.

This development aligns with broader efforts to leverage technology in enhancing public service delivery and ensuring that essential resources reach those in need effectively and efficiently. The introduction of the Grain ATM is expected to set a precedent for similar innovations in other regions.