Telangana’s Free Fine Rice Scheme Gets Massive Public Support, Says Uttam Kumar Reddy

Hyderabad: Telangana’s flagship free fine rice distribution scheme is receiving overwhelming support from the public and is emerging as a game-changer in food security, said Civil Supplies and Irrigation Minister N Uttam Kumar Reddy. He called it the largest food security initiative in India’s history.

Speaking during a video conference chaired by Chief Secretary Santhi Kumari with all District Collectors on Friday, Uttam Kumar Reddy said the scheme was a milestone in Telangana’s welfare journey, positively impacting millions across the state.

“This scheme is bringing a real change in people’s lives. We must make this a historic and inclusive effort,” he said.

The Minister informed that nearly 85% of Telangana’s population would benefit from the free fine rice scheme and warned officials against any delay or malpractice.

“Strict action will be taken if there are any irregularities. Everything must be done perfectly,” he added.

Ministers and Public Representatives Join the Initiative

Uttam Kumar Reddy called for active involvement of MLAs, MLCs, and MPs in the distribution process, urging them to eat meals with beneficiaries to build public trust.

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He announced that Chief Minister Revanth Reddy would have lunch with a beneficiary in Bhadrachalam on April 6 (Sri Rama Navami), while he himself would have dinner with a PDS beneficiary in Suryapet on Friday night.

During the conference, District Collectors reported smooth distribution across most regions, with over 99% coverage achieved in several districts. The public response has been extremely positive, they said.

Countering Misinformation and New Ration Cards

Chief Secretary Santhi Kumari directed officials to counter false propaganda by sharing accurate information about the scheme’s success.

Uttam Kumar Reddy also announced the upcoming physical distribution of ration cards, introducing:

• Tricolour Cards for Below Poverty Line (BPL) families
• Green Cards for Above Poverty Line (APL) families

He emphasized strict verification to ensure no eligible individual is left out. Highlighting the shortcomings of the previous BRS government, he said that only 49,479 new ration cards were issued in a decade, while the current Congress government has taken steps to add new cards and members on a large scale.

Later, the Minister also held another video conference with MPs, MLAs, MLCs, and Corporation Chairpersons, joined by Ministers Komatireddy Venkatreddy, Ponnam Prabhakar, and D Sridhar Babu. He urged all elected representatives to visit ration shops and personally participate in the rice distribution programme, reiterating the need to dine with the people to showcase genuine commitment.