Archive · 10 Oct 2026
Karnataka Seizes 5.65 Lakh Kilograms of PDS Rice
Karnataka officials carried out a three-day operation against the alleged diversion of rice meant for the Public Distribution System.
They seized 5.65 lakh kilograms of rice and 24 vehicles.
The biggest seizure happened in Belagavi district, where officials also sealed a processing facility.
In another operation, officials intercepted rice that they said was being prepared for shipment to Africa.
A preliminary audit reportedly found that the businesses traded much more rice than their documented purchases.
Six criminal cases were registered against nine people.
Two officials were suspended while a departmental inquiry is pending.
The state minister praised the enforcement teams and warned that people involved could face legal action.
Karnataka authorities seized 5.65 lakh kg of PDS rice worth Rs 1.34 crore during a three-day statewide crackdown.
Officials also impounded 24 vehicles worth Rs 3.41 crore; the combined estimated value was Rs 4.76 crore.
The largest seizure was in Belagavi district: 4,22,800 kg of rice and 19 trucks, with a processing facility sealed.
Authorities allege FCI rice was processed and sold for shipment to Africa; an audit reported trades exceeding documented purchases.
Six cases were registered against nine people, and two officials were suspended pending a departmental inquiry.
- Who
- Karnataka authorities, including food, tax, marketing, police and excise officials, conducted the crackdown.
- What
- Officials seized 5.65 lakh kg of PDS rice and 24 vehicles; six criminal cases were registered against nine people.
- When
- During a three-day statewide operation; suspension orders were issued on October 9.
- Where
- Across Karnataka, including Belagavi, Bengaluru Rural, Mandya and Vijayapura districts.
- Why
- The operation targeted the alleged illegal diversion of subsidised foodgrain.
- Rice seized
- 5.65 lakh kg, valued at Rs 1.34 crore
- Vehicles impounded
- 24, valued at Rs 3.41 crore
- Combined estimated value
- Rs 4.76 crore for the seized rice and vehicles
- Legal cases
- Six cases registered under the Essential Commodities Act, 1981, against nine people
- Largest seizure
- 4,22,800 kg of rice and 19 trucks seized in Belagavi district; the facility was sealed
- Africa shipment investigation
- A truck carried 35,000 kg of FCI rice at Attibele; the department alleges it was being prepared for shipment to Africa
- Officials suspended
- Food Inspector Praveen Sagar and Shirastedar L B Dange, pending a departmental inquiry
