Annapurna Grain ATM: On Saturday, the Director of Food, Fariha Alam Siddiqui, conducted a surprise inspection of the ‘Annapurna’ Grain ATM being set up in Bilaspur as part of efforts to modernize and increase the transparency of the Public Distribution System (PDS). She closely examined the project under construction, reviewing the quality of work, technical standards, and overall progress. She issued clear instructions to the concerned officials that there must be no negligence in the construction work and that the project should be completed to a high standard within the stipulated timeframe. During the inspection, she inquired about the ongoing work at the site and discussed the current status of construction, technical arrangements, and the future action plan with the officials. She emphasized that this project is not merely a construction task but a significant initiative to bring about technological improvements and transparency in the PDS; therefore, special attention must be paid to quality at every stage.
Faster and Transparent Ration Distribution
Fariha Alam Siddiqui stated that once the Grain ATM becomes operational, eligible beneficiaries will no longer have to wait in long queues to collect their rations. Powered by modern technology, this system will make ration distribution simpler, more transparent, and more organized. The government aims to ensure that poor and needy families receive food grains in a dignified and timely manner; hence, this scheme is being executed on a priority basis. She told officials that there would be no compromise on quality during construction. If any technical or administrative hurdles arise at any stage, they must be resolved immediately to ensure the project is completed on time.
Instructions for Coordinated Work
During the inspection, the Director of Food instructed officials from all departments involved in the construction to work in coordination with one another. She directed every agency to fulfill its responsibilities while adhering to the timeline to avoid unnecessary delays in the project. Food Officer Rajiv Lochan Tiwari, District Manager (NAN) Nitin Diwan, Municipal Corporation Engineer Ramandeep Chhabra, and other concerned officials were present on the occasion. The officials briefed the Director of Food on the progress of the construction work and assured her that the project would be completed within the scheduled time.
