'Connect E-POS to Scales' project to prevent ration fraud; administrative approval of Rs 33.5 crore

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The government has given administrative approval of Rs 33.5 crore for the Connect E-POS to Scales project to connect e-POS machines and scales to prevent ration fraud. The last budget allocation of Rs 10.82 crore has also been allocated. The project, which will be implemented in K-stores and then in ration shops, will be completed this financial year.

The trader will get four rupees more per quintal. The centre will give two rupees. The e-tender process has been started to purchase equipment for the project. Only then will the order be placed. The project, which was planned to be implemented in 2023, was postponed several times.

Scales and related equipment will be provided free of cost to the traders. The scales in the 60-kilogram K-store can be linked to e-POS. The project is being implemented in the wake of complaints from cardholders that there is a shortage of quantity in ration and ration traders that there is a shortage of quantity when stock is given from NFSA godowns.

Doorstep distribution should be made flawless

The bids received in the tender will be examined by the Prequalification Committee, Technical Evaluation Committee and Financial Evaluation Committee headed by the Civil Supplies Commissioner. Along with linking the e-POS and electronic scales, the traders demand that the ration delivered to the doorsteps should be linked to the e-POS and electronic scales and weighed and a receipt should be issued.

Fraud starting from godown

• Ration goods will be reduced in quantity at the godown
• Grain will be stolen while stocking and loading in vehicles.
• Due to this, the correct quantity of grain will not reach the ration shops
• Some traders will give less quantity to the beneficiaries