Andhra Pradesh to Shift Ration Delivery to Fair Price Shops from June 1

From June 1, ration supplies in Andhra Pradesh will be distributed exclusively through fair price shops, replacing the existing mobile delivery system. Reports suggest that the government has decided to discontinue the Mobile Dispensing Units (MDUs), which were introduced by the previous administration. Public representatives from the ruling coalition have reportedly conducted meetings in various areas, informing cardholders that ration supplies will henceforth be delivered through fair price shops. Dealers are also being advised to distribute ration items to cardholders properly through these outlets.

There has been widespread speculation that the current government, since coming to power, intends to abolish the MDU vehicle system initiated by the previous government. Minister for Civil Supplies Nadendla Manohar criticized the mobile delivery vehicles, stating that although they were introduced under the initiative of "ration at the doorstep," they have effectively turned into "street ration vehicles." He expressed the view that the MDU vehicles have not provided any real benefit to the public and have instead become a financial burden on the government.

Earlier, the government had sought public opinion on whether ration distribution should be continued through fair price shops or via MDU vehicles. The feedback received from ration cardholders appeared to be mixed, indicating varied perspectives among the public.

Addressing the issue on Saturday during a program held in Tenali, Guntur district, Nadendla Manohar responded to a concern raised by a woman. She complained that she was unable to be at home when the MDU vehicle arrived, and since it did not return, she ended up missing her ration supplies. In response, Nadendla Manohar stated that a decision on whether to continue or halt the mobile ration delivery (MDU) vehicles would be taken within two days.