Revanth Reddy to Launch Smart Ration Card Distribution in Sangareddy on I-Day

Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy will launch the distribution of new smart ration cards across Telangana at a public meeting in Sangareddy on Independence Day, following formal approval from the state Cabinet at its meeting on Friday.

Under the rollout plan, district in-charge ministers will lead the distribution of the cards in their respective districts. The newly designed cards feature photographs of Chief Minister Revanth Reddy and Civil Supplies Minister N. Uttam Kumar Reddy.

The format, introduced for the first time in Telangana, features waterproof and tear-resistant cards. Each card displays the cardholder's photograph, name, and address. In addition, an embedded QR code will offer access to digital records detailing family members linked to the ration card and the household's transaction history for essential commodities, including rice, sugar, and wheat.

To collect monthly provisions, beneficiaries can visit their local fair price shop and either present the card number or scan the QR code, followed by biometric authentication by any eligible family member. Cardholders are also required to download the T-Ration mobile application, link their ration card using a one-time password, and set up an M-PIN. The Civil Supplies Department is bearing the full cost of printing the cards, ensuring the service is provided to beneficiaries free of charge.

Alongside the smart ration card scheme, the Cabinet cleared several key agricultural decisions. The government approved an awareness campaign at gram panchayat buildings and Rythu Vedikas to encourage the cultivation of seven identified varieties of fine-quality paddy during the ongoing Vanakalam season, backed by a bonus of Rs 500 per quintal.

The Cabinet also approved the sale of 17.54 lakh metric tonnes of surplus paddy through an e-auction. The state had procured 81.16 lakh metric tonnes from farmers during the recent Yasangi season, of which the central government will take 63.62 lakh metric tonnes for the public distribution scheme. The remaining surplus has been assigned a base price of Rs 2,389 per quintal.