UDUPI: Udupi district administration led by deputy commissioner G Jagadeesha on Monday raided a rice mill at Kalmargi and seized rice in excess of 600 quintals. This rice was meant for distribution through the public distribution system under the anna bhagya scheme. Based on a tip off, DC Jagadeesha with officials and police in tow raided the mill in Shiriyar gram panchayat limits in Brahmavar taluk, an official communique here stated.

DC said the administration was collecting information about illegal transportation and storage of rice meant for 'anna bhagya' scheme for the past one month. The administration seized rice valued at Rs 16.5 lakh, seized six lorries, two goods tempo and an SUV and detained three drivers and cleaner. Noting that a gang is active in this illegality, Jagadeesha said the administration had carried out a similar raid in Kundapur taluk last month.

Noting that the administration will redouble its efforts to completely route out this practice, the DC appealed to people who may have knowledge about this food diversion racket to inform him so that prompt action may be taken. The administration in turn can ensure that this rice reaches the needy and is not sold in the open market at a higher rate. Gajendra, deputy director, department of food and civil supplies was present.