Ponnam Prabhakar launches subsidised rice distribution in Hyderabad under new state scheme

LatestPoliticsTelangana
By HNH Web Desk
Ponnam Prabhakar

HYDERABAD: Transport Minister and Hyderabad in-charge Ponnam Prabhakar on Saturday formally launched the distribution of subsidised fine rice to beneficiaries under the state’s latest welfare scheme, aimed at ensuring food security without economic discrimination.

The inaugural event took place at Civil Supplies Shop No. 602 in Adarsh Basti, Himayatnagar, where Ponnam personally handed over the rice to ration card holders. Later, he was joined by MLA Danam Nagender, Hyderabad Mayor Gadwal Vijayalakshmi, Collector Anudeep Durishetty, and Corporators Mahalakshmi and Vijaya Reddy for a community meal at a beneficiary’s home near Gandhi Kutir in Narayanaguda.

Speaking on the occasion, Minister Ponnam Prabhakar said the Telangana government launched the fine rice distribution scheme on Ugadi, marking the first time in India where both the rich and the poor are encouraged to eat the same quality rice. He acknowledged that due to the election code in Hyderabad, distribution could not begin earlier, but confirmed it had now resumed across 653 ration shops from May 1.

He stated that the scheme covers all holders of white ration cards and that the state is actively issuing new cards to eligible applicants. Criticising the previous BRS regime, Ponnam said no new ration cards were issued in the past 10 years, nor were existing ones updated.

Ponnam Prabhakar

He emphasised that the current government is processing ration card applications through caste census data, Prajavani app submissions, and regular MRO office applications, calling the approach a “historic decision.” Ponnam noted that while rice costs ₹60 per kg in the open market, the subsidised rice scheme will significantly ease the burden on poor families.

Highlighting broader welfare measures, he said the government has provided 200 units of free electricity, LPG cylinders at ₹500, a ₹500 bonus on fine rice to farmers, and filled 60,000 government jobs.

Reiterating the state’s commitment to Hyderabad’s development, the minister cited housing through the Indiramma Housing scheme, job creation via the Yuva Vikasam initiative, and fair ration card issuance as key steps towards inclusive growth. Beneficiaries of the rice scheme expressed happiness at receiving high-quality rice, Ponnam added.

He urged Hyderabad residents to take full advantage of the initiative and continue supporting the government in its pro-people endeavours.

 

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