A new system has been implemented for ration distribution by the state government, coinciding with the rice distribution program which commenced on June 1. The program aims to provide rice for the months of June, July and August. The updated rules stipulate that the distribution of rations now hinges on the verification of an OTP, delivered to the beneficiary’s mobile phone. This marks a shift from the previous method which relied on thumb impressions.
Beneficiaries must now provide the OTP received on their mobile phones to claim their ration. Consequently, individuals arriving at ration shops without a mobile phone linked to their Aadhaar card face challenges. They must contact someone at home to obtain the OTP, resulting in delays. The requirement of the OTP for ration distribution has led to increased crowds at public service centers, as people are hurrying to link their Aadhaar numbers to their mobile phones to comply with the new regulations.