India’s first round-the-clock grain ATM, named Annapurti Grain ATM, was recently inaugurated in Mancheswar, Bhubaneswar, Odisha.
About Annapurti Grain ATM:
- India’s first round-the-clock grain ATM represents a significant advancement in food distribution.
- The ATM aims to enhance nutritional security by providing 24/7 access to rice and wheat, thereby addressing distribution challenges associated with the Public Distribution System (PDS).
- The machine offers a streamlined process where beneficiaries authenticate their identity using Aadhar or Ration card numbers and biometric verification.
- They can then receive their grains within five minutes, which will minimize delays from dealers and ensure timely distribution of food grains.
- The ATM is designed to dispense up to 50 kilograms of grains with a minimal error rate of 0.01%, is energy-efficient, and can be connected to solar panels for automatic refilling.
- It is expected to reduce waiting times by 70% and will be rolled out across all districts in Odisha.
- This initiative reflects a significant collaboration between the Odisha government and the World Food Programme.
- It marks progress in achieving nutritional security and improving the efficiency of food distribution.
About UN World Food Programme (WFP):
- It is the world’s largest humanitarian organization focused on addressing hunger and promoting food security.
- It was established in 1961 as a specialized agency of the United Nations.
- It works to provide food assistance in emergencies, support nutrition, and improve the livelihoods of vulnerable communities worldwide.
- WFP operates in over 80 countries, delivering food aid to millions of people affected by conflicts, natural disasters, and economic crises.
- In addition to emergency response, it works on long-term projects for eradicating hunger and building resilience, school feeding programs, food-for-work initiatives, etc.
- In recognition of its efforts, the WFP was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2020 for its role in combating hunger and contributing to peace in conflict-affected regions.
Ref: Source
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Frequently Asked Question:
What is the Annapurti Grain ATM?
The Annapurti Grain ATM is India’s first round-the-clock automated machine designed to dispense rice and wheat.
What are the benefits of the Annapurti Grain ATM? .
The ATM significantly reduces waiting times by up to 70%, minimizes delays from dealers, and ensures timely distribution of food grains. It also offers a high accuracy rate with a minimal error rate of 0.01%
Who is behind the Annapurti Grain ATM initiative?
The initiative is a collaboration between the Odisha government and the World Food Programme (WFP).