MARGAO
Thousands of ration cardholders in Salcete and nearby areas are facing delays in getting their April foodgrain quota, as most fair price shops have not yet received their monthly supply.
Under the Public Distribution System, foodgrains are usually distributed at the start of each month. However, several shop owners said stocks have not arrived, forcing beneficiaries to make repeated visits to check availability.
Director of Civil Supplies Jayant Tari said the delay was due to payment issues. He added that the matter has now been resolved and supplies are being transported to fair price shops. The department will also extend the distribution period to ensure all beneficiaries receive their quota.
At the local level, ration shop owners confirmed that April supplies are still pending. One dealer said he had used up previous stock to serve some beneficiaries, but most are still waiting. “With last month’s stock, I have cleared some cardholders, but many are still waiting,” he said.
Residents from Chandor, Guirdolim and Macazana said they have been visiting shops for the past 15 days, only to return empty-handed.
Sources said transport contractors under the revised system were unable to deliver stocks due to the situation.
Despite assurances, many shops were still waiting for their April quota even on Wednesday evening.
Shop owners are also required to report stock positions to authorities on the 21st of every month to help monitor distribution and inventory.
