In a surprise inspection at the Civil Supplies Department-run rice outlet in AP Bhavan, New Delhi, Andhra Pradesh Civil Supplies Minister Nadendla Manohar expressed serious displeasure over irregularities in rice distribution and ordered immediate closure of the shop.
Accompanied by Civil Supplies Secretary Saurabh Gaur and AP Bhavan Resident Commissioner Lav Agarwal, the minister inspected the premises and personally checked the quality and weight of the rice bags being sold. During the inspection, Manohar found that a rice bag labelled 26 kg contained only 25 kg. Additionally, he pointed out that the weighing machine was malfunctioning and the rice being sold was of poor quality with high starch content.
"This is unacceptable. The rice being sold here is not up to standard. There’s a clear weight discrepancy, and the quality is subpar. I have ordered the seizure of this shop immediately," said Minister Nadendla Manohar. "We will take steps to set up a proper ration store under the AP Civil Supplies Department within a month. Citizens deserve quality rice and essential goods at fair prices, and we will ensure that," the minister said.
The minister's inspection has triggered a larger review of Civil Supplies outlets and their functioning, particularly outside the state. Officials have been directed to ensure strict compliance with weight and quality standards and to take immediate corrective action wherever irregularities are found.
The new ration store to be set up at AP Bhavan is expected to stock quality rice and essential commodities, ensuring transparency and accountability in service delivery.
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