Andhra interferes in Kotia again, lures Odisha tribals with digital ration cards

In yet another attempt to trespass on Odisha’s Kotia, officials of Andhra Pradesh have once again tried to manipulate the tribals by distributing digital ration cards to beneficiaries. After a brief hiatus, officials from Andhra Pradesh were seen distributing digital ration cards to the people in Kotia under Pottangi block in Odisha’s Koraput district.

Yesterday, at Talaganjepada Square, beneficiaries who already possessed traditional ration cards were provided with digital cards. Officials reportedly called people and conducted fingerprint scans before issuing the cards. Around 50 beneficiaries received the digital cards during this outreach program, with little to no knowledge from the block and district administration.

Officials from Andhra Pradesh’s Salur Supply Department, including GRS, supply department officers, and PEO, visited the area on motorcycles to facilitate the card updates.

According to sources, each digital ration card entitles beneficiaries to 35 kilograms of rice supplied by the Andhra Pradesh government.

Also Read: Odisha tightens grip on Kotia, counters Andhra’s influence with development push

Although the initiative is expected to simplify the distribution process, reduce delays, and help authorities maintain accurate records of beneficiaries, local officials seem unaware of Andhra’s tactics.

Efforts to obtain an official comment from the Pottangi Block administration and the Koraput district administration regarding this program were unsuccessful at the time of reporting. This is not the first time Andhra officials have tried to enter Kotia despite repeated warnings by Odisha.