KIRANMAI TUTIKA | AMARAVATI

In a significant policy shift aimed at improving nutritional standards among low-income households, the Andhra Pradesh government has decided to begin free distribution of ragi (finger millet) through the state’s public distribution system starting this June. This move marks a departure from the traditional rice-only distribution and is part of the state’s broader food security and nutrition enhancement agenda.

According to officials from the Civil Supplies Department, families who currently receive 20 kilograms of rice per month under the ration scheme will now have the option to receive 2 kilograms of ragi, with an equivalent reduction in rice quantity.

“This is a forward-looking step that aligns with both nutritional goals and the United Nations' International Year of Millets initiative,” said a senior official from the Food and Civil Supplies Department. “Ragi is rich in calcium, iron, and dietary fiber, and it’s especially beneficial for children, women, and the elderly. By incorporating millets into the public distribution system (PDS), we are addressing both food security and long-term health outcomes.”

The initiative also echoes the Union Government's larger millet mission, which encourages millet consumption and production as part of sustainable agriculture and dietary diversification. A tender has already been floated for the procurement of this quantity, ensuring timely supply to ration outlets across all districts.

“Procurement will be done from local farmers wherever possible, especially from Rayalaseema and tribal regions, where millet farming is more prevalent. This will also give a much-needed economic boost to small-scale farmers engaged in millet cultivation,” said an official overseeing the supply chain.

To tackle the public, the government is reportedly planning awareness drives and cooking demonstrations in selected districts. “We are looking at involving self-help groups and Anganwadi workers to educate people on the benefits and preparation methods of ragi. Nutritional guidance will be key to this transition.”

Depending on the success of this rollout, the government is exploring the possibility of introducing other millets like jowar and bajra into the PDS in the coming years. “This is just the beginning. We want to make Andhra Pradesh a pioneer in providing not just food security, but also food quality and health equity through our ration system,” said Nadendla Manohar, Minister of Civil Supplies department.