Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
The Public Distribution System (PDS) is a crucial safety net for millions of Indians, ensuring access to essential food grains at subsidized rates. However, the system has historically been plagued by inefficiencies, leakages, and corruption, undermining its effectiveness. Recognizing these challenges, the government has increasingly leveraged technology to enhance transparency, accountability, and overall operational efficiency. This response will illustrate how various technological interventions are transforming the PDS landscape.
Challenges in the Traditional PDS
Before delving into technological solutions, it's crucial to acknowledge the pre-existing issues. These include:
- Leakages and Diversion: Food grains often diverted to black markets.
- Ghost beneficiaries: Fake names on ration cards.
- Corruption: Fair price shop (FPS) owners manipulating data.
- Inefficient Distribution: Lack of real-time data on stock and distribution.
Technological Interventions for PDS Improvement
1. Aadhaar Integration
Aadhaar-enabled Public Distribution System (AE-PDS) links ration cards to Aadhaar numbers, aiming to eliminate ghost beneficiaries and ensure targeted delivery. Biometric authentication at FPS ensures only authorized individuals receive subsidized grains. While implementation faces challenges, it significantly reduces fraud. The Food Ministry's mandate for Aadhaar linking is a key driver.
2. Electronic Weighing Machines (EWMs)
EWMs replace traditional weighing scales at FPS, ensuring accurate distribution and reducing discrepancies. Data from EWMs is often linked to central databases for real-time monitoring. The initiative, implemented across many states, improves transparency and reduces the scope for manipulation. According to the Department of Food and Public Distribution, over 98% of FPS are equipped with EWMs (as of 2023).
3. Point of Sale (PoS) Devices
PoS devices, similar to those used in retail stores, record every transaction at the FPS. This data is uploaded to a central server, providing a complete audit trail and minimizing diversions. The system also captures beneficiary data, helping identify patterns and improve targeting. Jharkhand was among the first states to widely adopt PoS devices.
4. Mobile Applications
Mobile applications are used for various purposes, including grievance redressal, stock management, and beneficiary awareness. These apps enable citizens to report issues, track their entitlements, and access information about FPS locations. The ‘Annadata’ app in Uttar Pradesh is one such example.
5. Blockchain Technology
While still in pilot phases, blockchain technology holds promise for enhancing traceability and transparency. By creating an immutable record of transactions, blockchain can minimize fraud and ensure accountability across the entire PDS supply chain. Pilot projects are being explored in states like Telangana.
Table: Comparison of Traditional vs. Technology-Enabled PDS
| Feature | Traditional PDS | Technology-Enabled PDS |
|---|---|---|
| Transparency | Low | High |
| Accountability | Limited | Enhanced |
| Leakage | High | Reduced |
| Efficiency | Low | Improved |
Conclusion
Technology is undeniably transforming the PDS, enhancing efficiency and transparency. Aadhaar integration, EWMs, PoS devices, mobile apps, and emerging technologies like blockchain are contributing to a more accountable and targeted system. However, challenges remain, including digital literacy gaps and infrastructure limitations. Future efforts should focus on strengthening connectivity, promoting digital inclusion, and ensuring data security to maximize the benefits of these technological interventions and realize the PDS's full potential in alleviating food insecurity.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.