Annabhagya beneficiaries prefer rice over cash, reveals survey

A recent survey conducted by the Department of Food, Civil Supplies, and Consumer Affairs has revealed that 80% of Annabhagya beneficiaries prefer receiving rice over cash.

The ‘Anna Bhagya’ scheme, one of the poll guarantees of the Congress government had promised to provide 10 kg of rice to every member of a BPL household. However faced with difficulty in procuring large quantities of rice required to implement the scheme, the state government decided to pay cash to beneficiaries at the rate of Rs 34 per kg, for the additional 5 kg of rice through direct cash transfers.

The survey was conducted across various taluks and opinions of ration card holders, village accountants, and food inspectors were sought as part of the exercise. As per the findings, around 80-82% of customers opined that they preferred rice instead of cash.

It was pointed out that the cash, provided instead of the rice may be used for for other purposes. The additional 5 kg rice, if provided would suffice their household’s monthly food needs. Though a few may resort to selling the rice in the open market, it would be beneficial for the majority. The opposition too has been cornering the government in this regard.

It is said that the survey report is being withheld as the scarcity caused by insufficient rainfall has adversely impacted paddy production.

Meanwhile, a few of the survey respondents requested that they would prefer pulses, sugar, and cooking oil, as was being done during CM Siddaramaiah’s tenure (2013-2017), instead of extra rice or cash with the allocated funds. The demand was prompted by the rising prices of these commodities.

In contrast, coastal district ration card holders, especially in Dakshina Kannada and Udupi, prefer to maintain the existing system. Their dietary preferences, primarily centered around Kuchalakki. It must be noted that these opinions remain varied across different regions.