Jharkhand's Biometric Blunder: Internet Issues Hamper Ration Access

Jharkhand faces challenges with its biometric system for ration distribution due to internet issues in remote areas. Ruling JMM MLA Hemlal Murmu highlights manpower shortages in public distribution and Bazar Samitis. The state government plans upgrades and recruitments to tackle these problems.

Jharkhand's public distribution system is under scrutiny as ruling JMM MLA Hemlal Murmu criticized the inefficiencies in the biometric system used for ration distribution in remote areas. Murmu highlighted the lack of internet connectivity, which hampers the system's functionality, and called for government intervention.

During the assembly session, Food and Public Distribution Minister Irfan Ansari acknowledged the challenges, revealing that 255 out of 260 sanctioned block supply officer posts remain unfilled. Ansari assured the assembly that recruitment processes are underway, and PoS devices have been upgraded from 2G to 4G connectivity to improve accessibility.

Agriculture Minister Shilpi Neha Tirkey addressed similar issues in Bazar Samitis and promised regulatory reforms to provide better markets for farmers. The assembly session will continue through March, focusing on resolving these crucial infrastructural and manpower challenges.

(With inputs from agencies.)