In News:

In a move aimed at modernising food security delivery, the state of Bihar has initiated a pilot project to install “Grain ATMs” (Annapurti machines) in Patna. The initiative seeks to enhance efficiency, transparency, and beneficiary convenience under the Public Distribution System (PDS) one of the world’s largest food security programmes.

This reform represents the integration of digital governance and automation into welfare delivery.

What is a Grain ATM?

A Grain ATM, also called Annapurti, is an automated food grain dispensing machine designed to function similarly to a banking ATM. It enables eligible beneficiaries to collect their rationed grains without depending entirely on manual distribution at Fair Price Shops (FPSs).

The technology has been developed by the World Food Programme (WFP) in collaboration with the Food Corporation of India (FCI) and state governments.

Key Features

• 24×7 Availability – Operates round the clock like bank ATMs
• High Dispensing Speed – Can release up to 50 kg of grain in about five minutes
• Solar-Powered Option – Suitable for areas with unstable electricity
• Internet-Enabled – Connected to the PDS database for real-time updates
• Reduced Waiting Time – WFP estimates up to 70% reduction in queue time

How the System Works

1. The beneficiary swipes a ration/beneficiary card or uses an Aadhaar-linked authentication.
2. Biometric verification is completed through a PoS device.
3. The beneficiary selects the type and quantity of grain within their entitlement limit.
4. The machine dispenses the grain automatically.
5. The transaction is digitally recorded in the PDS database.
6. A printed slip is issued as proof of distribution.

This process minimises human intervention and manual weighing errors.

Bihar’s Pilot Initiative

• The Government of Bihar has approved the installation of three Grain ATMs in Patna as a pilot.
• The Food and Consumer Protection Department is the nodal implementing agency.
• If successful, the project may be expanded across urban and eventually rural areas.

Bihar has a large food security footprint:

• Over 8.5 crore PDS beneficiaries
• More than 50,000 Fair Price Shops

National Context

India’s PDS network is massive:

• ~80 crore beneficiaries covered under food security schemes
• 5.45 lakh Fair Price Shops nationwide

Several states, including Odisha, have already piloted Grain ATMs, particularly in urban areas. The Union government plans to expand such technology-driven systems to the Panchayat level in the future.

Funding and Implementation

• The project operates under a Centre–State partnership model.
• States provide physical space for installation.
• Maintenance and security costs are shared between the Centre and state governments.

Significance of Grain ATMs

• Improved Transparency: Automation reduces scope for diversion, under-weighing, and corruption at FPS outlets.
• Beneficiary Convenience: 24×7 access reduces long queues and allows flexible collection times, especially for daily-wage earners.
• Digitisation of Welfare Delivery: Real-time database updates strengthen data accuracy and monitoring.
• Women & Elderly Friendly: Faster service benefits vulnerable groups who struggle with long waiting times.
• Energy Sustainability: Solar-powered machines align with clean energy goals.