Kandhamal residents irk over supply of substandard PDS rice

The residents of Raikia panchayat in Kandhamal district have alleged that they have been supplied with poor quality and adulterated rice under the Public Distribution System (PDS) scheme.

Expressing displeasure over the matter, the beneficiaries have alleged that though there is a provision to provide millet and rice separately, at Masedikia village, the grains are mixed and supplied to them.

Earlier, five kg of rice was supplied to each beneficiary. But since last month, the government has decided to provide 5 kg rice and millet. But the dealer is mixing the grains and providing the beneficiaries, complained the villagers.

“I brought the rice and millet mix yesterday. It is becoming very difficult to separate the grains. When we questioned about mixing of both the items, the dealer said he has received mixture,” said Uttam Digal, a beneficiary.

Expressing resentment Pranita Digal, another beneficiary said, “I asked the dealer to provide me a separate packet for rice and millet, but in vain.”

Commenting on the development Sradhanjali Digal, supply assistant of Raikia panchayat said, “We are supplying what we are getting. The allegation of rice adulteration is baseless.”