Hyderabad residents faced a deadline on June 30 to collect their 3-month ration. If they missed this, the next distribution will be in September. The Civil Supplies Department has delivered 5.414 lakh metric tons (MTs) of food, reaching 94.62% of the allocated amount.
Officials noted that awareness programs and the state’s decision to introduce Sanna Biyyam (fine rice) for the first time significantly boosted distribution rates. Out of the 5.722 lakh MTs allocated for June, July, and August, 94.62% was distributed, marking a high point in the current administration’s 1.5-year term.
Before Sanna Biyyam, the Public Distribution System (PDS) distribution was under 90%. After its introduction in April, it increased to 91.96% in April and 91.45% in May. In 2024, the overall distribution was 89%, with 19 lakh MTs distributed from an allocation of 21 lakh MTs. Before Sanna Biyyam, coarse rice saw only 88% distribution. With fine rice, distribution has averaged 91.96% since April. In June, the department provided a 3-month advance ration, achieving nearly 95% distribution. This rise shows Sanna Biyyam’s acceptance and the PDS system’s improved efficiency in Telangana.
By June’s end, Hyderabad (104%), Medchal (116%), and Ranga Reddy (111%) districts exceeded 100% distribution. This success is partly due to residents from other states collecting their share. The One Nation One Ration Card (ONORC) scheme, launched in 2019, promotes inter-state portability. Initially in four states, it now covers more areas, ensuring food security for all, including migrant workers, by allowing PDS benefits access from any fair price shop nationwide.
Distribution started on June 1 and peaked between June 3 and June 14. As the month ended, only a few people collected their remaining rice, as distribution paused until September.
