BRS seeks probe into price discrepancy in Poshan Abhiyan mobile procurement

The BRS has demanded an investigation into mobile phone procurement for Anganwadi workers under Poshan Abhiyan, alleging an excess payment of Rs 8.44 crore due to price differences between tender rates and market value of the devices.

Hyderabad: The BRS on Tuesday demanded an investigation into the procurement of mobile phones for Anganwadi workers under the Poshan Abhiyan programme, alleging a major price discrepancy in the tender process. The party suspected a scam of Rs 8.44 crore paid in excess of the market price.

Party spokesperson Manne Krishank said the Women and Child Welfare department, headed by Minister D Seethakka, awarded a contract worth Rs 54.19 crore for the supply of 38,130 Samsung Galaxy A06 smartphones. Citing government orders, he said the phones were procured at a cost of Rs 14,213 each, while the same model was listed at Rs 11,999 on the company’s official website. He said the total market value of the devices would be around Rs 45.75 crore, indicating a difference of about Rs 8.44 crore in the contract amount.

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He said bulk procurement usually results in lower prices and questioned how the higher rate was approved and who benefited from the difference. He demanded a fair and transparent inquiry into the tender process.