How Bilaspur's grain ATM ensures transparent food distribution

In a landmark move for food‑security administration, Bilaspur introduced an automated grain ATM at Saranda on August 8. The machine, set up with assistance from the United Nations World Food Programme, uses Aadhaar‑linked biometric scans to verify beneficiaries and automatically dispense the entitled quantity of grain.

Transparency is built into the system: once the thumbprint is confirmed, the device shows the exact allotment on screen. The user then places a bag beneath the dispenser, presses a button, and the pre‑measured amount of wheat, rice or pulses is released. This eliminates manual weighing, reduces the chance of human error, and provides a clear audit trail for each transaction.

Deputy Chief Minister Arun Saw, who inaugurated the ATM, stressed that technology can bridge gaps in the public distribution system, making it more accountable and less susceptible to corruption. Food Minister Dayaldas Baghel, participating online, reiterated the state's commitment to leveraging digital tools for poverty alleviation.

The demonstration attracted a crowd of local residents, ration‑card holders, and a host of officials including the Mayor, District Panchayat President, and senior police officers. Their positive response underscores the public's readiness to adopt modern solutions for age‑old challenges.

State planners intend to roll out similar grain ATMs across the region, aiming for a fully digitised, transparent, and efficient PDS that reaches the most vulnerable households without delay.