Second Phase of Deepam - 2 Free Cooking Gas Cylinder Distribution Scheme Launches in Andhra Pradesh

The Deepam - 2 initiative, a scheme for distributing free cooking gas cylinders, has entered its second phase in Andhra Pradesh. This programme, launched by Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu on October 31 last year in Ichchapuram, Srikakulam district, has already benefitted over 99 lakh people. Food & Civil Supplies Minister N Manohar announced that more than Rs 700 crore has been credited to beneficiaries' accounts.

Deepam - 2 Scheme Details

Deepam - 2 provides eligible individuals with three gas cylinders annually, with one cylinder available every four months. This initiative is part of the "Super Six" promises made by Naidu ahead of the 2024 elections. In the past three months alone, an additional two lakh gas connections have been registered under this scheme.

Implementation and Beneficiary Support

The second phase commenced recently, with efforts to resolve any e-KYC or eligibility issues through WhatsApp or online platforms. Of the total 4.24 crore beneficiaries, 93 per cent have completed their e-KYC process. The remaining beneficiaries are expected to be covered by the end of the month, according to Minister Manohar during a press conference at the Secretariat.

Educational and Agricultural Initiatives

From this academic year, high-quality fine rice will be distributed to 44,394 schools and 3,938 hostels across the state. Five warehouses have been established for monthly distribution. The state plans to procure 10 lakh tonnes of paddy this Rabi season, with 2,900 centres and 12,000 staff ready to facilitate this process. Farmers now have the option to sell their produce via WhatsApp.

Upcoming Reforms

The NDA coalition government is set to introduce QR-coded Rice Cards as a replacement for traditional ration cards. This move aims to prevent illegal transportation of PDS rice. Minister Manohar highlighted these upcoming reforms as part of efforts to enhance transparency and efficiency in distribution systems.

The Deepam - 2 scheme continues to expand its reach and impact in Andhra Pradesh, aligning with broader government initiatives aimed at improving public welfare and agricultural productivity.