The issue of illegal export of Public Distribution System (PDS) rice from states like Andhra Pradesh and Telangana has raised serious concerns, especially after a large consignment of PDS rice was intercepted at Kakinada port.

The Customs Department has clarified that its role in this matter is limited to the point when the rice enters the Customs notified area.

Tracing the source of the rice before export, which is key in identifying any illegal shipments, falls outside the scope of the Customs Department.

The Customs Commissioner of Vijayawada emphasized that while the department has no direct involvement in monitoring the source of rice before it reaches the port, it does intervene once the rice arrives in the Customs area.

The department has expressed its commitment to support the state government in stopping the illegal export of PDS rice. The rice, upon arrival at the port, can only be allowed to enter based on a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Civil Supplies Department, which is responsible for ensuring the legitimacy of the rice being exported.

Despite efforts like the establishment of check posts in August 2024 to curb illegal exports, concerns persist about the possibility of PDS rice being smuggled out.

The Rice Exporters Association has also voiced support for stopping the illegal export of PDS rice, offering to collaborate with the relevant authorities to prevent such shipments. This collective effort underscores the gravity of the issue and the need for coordinated action across departments to address it.