Lucknow, Apr 15 (UNI) With an aim to strengthen the state's food supply chain and secure safe, reliable food storage, modern Annapurna Bhawans are being constructed across Uttar Pradesh, official sources said here on Tuesday.

Sources said that these state-of-the-art facilities are designed to establish a permanent and efficient ration distribution system and ensuring uninterrupted operations of fair price shops, even amidst changes in ration dealers.

Sources said that as part of the Annapurna Bhawan Yojana, a total of 3,534 new Annapurna buildings have been completed, with another 2,000 currently under construction. "The state government has allocated Rs 200 crore in the financial year 2025-26 to continue this crucial initiative," they said.

Sources said that the Yogi government envisions these buildings as multi-purpose centres in both rural and urban areas, aiming to address the everyday needs of the people while boosting their social and economic welfare. "Constructed under MGNREGA, these buildings will not only store food grains but will also provide a venue for the operation of fair price shops. Located on government land in gram panchayats, the facilities will include a hall, waiting room and public service centre," they said.

Sources said that to expand the network of Annapurna Bhawans in 2025-26, additional funding will be sourced from the departmental budget in conjunction with MGNREGA. "The government's allocation of Rs 200 crore underscores its commitment to strengthening food security and improving public services," they said.

Sources said that the primary aim of the Annapurna Bhawans is to streamline the food supply process in both rural and urban areas. "Previously, fair price shops were often located in narrow streets, creating challenges for food grain supply vehicles and customers. The new Annapurna Bhawans, however, offer improved accessibility for both supply vehicles and the general public, making the food distribution process more efficient and convenient," they said.

Sources said that beyond serving as centres for food grain distribution, these buildings will also offer essential public services. "Each Annapurna Bhawan is equipped with two separate rooms, one for storing government ration supplies and the other for operating a Common Service Centre (CSC). The CSC will provide vital services such as issuing birth, death, income and caste certificates," they said.

Sources said that general stores and community service facilities will be incorporated into these buildings, offering services like electricity bill payments, broadband access, affordable generic medicines and the sale of everyday essential items. "This system is designed to simplify daily life for residents while facilitating effective implementation of government schemes, ensuring greater access to services for all," they said.

Sources said that the Annapurna Bhawans will be equipped with modern facilities, including CCTV cameras and internet access, to ensure both transparency and security. "To facilitate the construction of new buildings, all supply inspectors have been instructed to promptly identify suitable land. Once the land selection process is completed, construction will begin without delay," they said.

Sources said that the Yogi government aims to transform all 78,625 fair price shops into permanent, well-equipped Annapurna Bhawans. "This initiative will significantly enhance the food distribution system and provide people with access to high-quality services, improving the overall public service experience," they said.

UNI AB SJC