By Our Reporter
Shillong, Aug 25: ‘Annapurti’ also known as the ‘grain ATM’, the first of its kind in the entire northeast region was launched by the Department of Food Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs in partnership with the United Nations’ World Food Programme (WFP) here on Friday.
The first automated grain dispensing machine was installed at a fair price shop in R R Colony, Rynjah.
It is said that the machine will ensure timely distribution of food grains as per beneficiaries’ entitlement and enabling the public distribution system to perform better.
The grain ATM aims to ensure exact weighing and dispensation of food grains to NFSA beneficiaries in the state, especially to the inter-state and intra-state migrant beneficiaries at their convenient time of the day.
With a capacity of 200 to 500 kgs, the machine can be operated through an e-POS device and has 99.99% accuracy and 40% reduction in wait-time.
Annapurti machine has significant potential for food-based safety nets, ensuring that the beneficiaries receive their monthly subsidised grains promptly. The machine’s precision and reliability prevent losses and ensure individuals receive their entitled portions.
During emergencies, such as natural disasters or humanitarian crises, it can facilitate efficient and timely distribution of food grains to the affected population. The automated system streamlines the process, reducing dependency on manual labour and minimising errors.
The machine is designed to prioritise food security while ensuring efficient energy consumption.
The machine with its modular design allows for flexibility and scalability based on available space.
The storage unit and components can be easily assembled and customised to suit different requirements. Annapurti can be integrated with solar panels, inverter batteries and elevators for automatic refilling.. At the 2022 WFP Innovation Awards, Annapurti was recognised as one of the World Food Programme’s top five innovative solutions.
The programme was graced by Food Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs Minister, Comingone Ymbon, United Nations’ WFPCountry Director, Elisabeth Faure, officials from the Department among others.