Chhattisgarh has launched an automated Grain ATM in Raipur’s Birgaon, allowing beneficiaries to collect their monthly rice allocation around the clock. The machine uses card details and biometric authentication before dispensing rice, reducing queues and manual intervention. Operated by a women’s self-help group, it also serves beneficiaries under the One Nation, One Ration Card scheme.

Chhattisgarh has introduced a new automated system to modernise its public distribution network, allowing beneficiaries to collect their monthly ration from a machine that functions much like a bank ATM, available around the clock. The Annapurthi Grain ATM was launched in Raipur's Birgaon area, offering a faster alternative to the traditional ration distribution system and doing away with the long queues and waiting hours associated with it.

How the grain ATM works?

The machine dispenses the prescribed quantity of rice to beneficiaries after biometric authentication. Once a beneficiary enters their card details and completes a fingerprint scan, the machine releases the allocated rice, cutting down on manual intervention in the process. The facility has a storage capacity of around 2,500 kilograms, with rice loading and dispensing handled through an automated system.

Run by a local women's self-help group