Corrupt officials and dishonest ration depot operators in Haryana will no longer be able to exploit the ration system meant for the state’s underprivileged citizens. The Haryana government is implementing strict measures to ensure that ration reaches only the eligible poor. To prevent fraud, the government will introduce a one-time password (OTP) system for ration distribution.
OTP-Based Ration Distribution System
Under this new system, each registered beneficiary will receive an OTP on their mobile phone. When collecting ration from the depot, individuals must provide this OTP to verify their identity. If the OTP is incorrect, the person will not be able to access the ration. This system will function similarly to how OTPs are used for ATM withdrawals in banks.
To implement this system, new machines will be installed across the state to send OTPs directly to the registered mobile numbers of beneficiaries. Haryana’s Minister of State for Food and Supplies, Rajesh Nagar, has instructed officials to expedite the installation of these machines at ration depots. The OTP verification system will help eliminate corruption by ensuring ration reaches genuine recipients only.
Fixed Ration Distribution Date and Enhanced Security
The state government has announced that ration will now be distributed on the 10th of every month to ensure uniformity. Additionally, CCTV cameras will be installed outside all ration depots to monitor activities and prevent malpractice. A display board with the helpline number of the department and the contact details of the depot operator will also be placed outside each depot, allowing people to report any issues directly.
Benefiting Over 2.13 Crore People
Currently, the Food and Supplies Department distributes ration to approximately 2.13 crore people across Haryana. The state has 52 lakh registered ration cards for families receiving free ration. Antyodaya cardholders get 11 kg of wheat per ration card, while BPL cardholders receive 2 kg of wheat per unit for free. Additionally, 24 kg of millet per ration card and 3 kg per unit are distributed free of charge. Beneficiaries also receive 1 kg of sugar at ₹13.5 per kg and 2 liters of mustard oil at ₹20 per liter.
The Haryana government is now planning to reintroduce salt distribution for the poor. Millet distribution will continue until April to meet the nutritional needs of families during winter.
Identifying Corrupt Practices and Ensuring Transparency
The state government is actively working to identify corrupt ration depot operators and officials who have been exploiting the system. Some operators have been found sending fake messages claiming that beneficiaries have collected their ration. The new OTP system, combined with CCTV surveillance, aims to curb such fraudulent practices and ensure that government welfare benefits reach the rightful recipients. The Haryana government is committed to implementing these measures effectively and swiftly to secure food security for its citizens.
