India, March 3 -- Residents of Jhirjhira village under Dharakot block of Ganjam district continue to confront severe obstacles in accessing essential government services. Although they are eligible for 5 Kg of free rice provided through 'food security scheme', transportation costs make it an expensive necessity, sources said on Sunday.

Allegedly, villagers spend about Rs 500 to transport the rice home, navigating tough forest and hill paths.

To collect their allocated rations, villagers must undertake a gruelling 40-kilometre journey on foot to the panchayat office in Balrampur. The lack of proper roads means that the trek is both time-consuming and exhausting.

Rs 500 for transportation to get 5 kg free PDS rice Due to the absence of a...