The delay in supply of PoS devices to retailers has compelled Odisha govt to postpone its DBT for fertilizer subsidy from January to February next year, reports Indian Express.
Of the 11,680 retailers identified by the Agriculture Department for sale of fertilizers, PoS devices have been supplied to 6,174 retailers. Only 913 primary agriculture cooperative societies (PACS) and large area multi-purpose cooperative societies (LAMPS), are equipped with PoS devices.
A source is quoted saying, the DBT scheme could be implemented only if all the retail points are equipped with PoS devices and the beneficiary farmers have bank accounts.
Sources say the govt of India has supplied PoS devices and these are being supplied to retailers.
The DBT scheme is being introduced to ensure transparency in the sale of fertilizers – a subsidized item as well as stop its diversion to industries. The Centre is giving subsidy of Rs 70,000 crore annually towards fertilizers.