Digitisation to make targeted PDS beneficiary-friendly

The government has planned end-to-end computerisation of the targeted public distribution system (TPDS), with an outlay of Rs884.07 crore, to make its reach more effective and beneficiary-friendly.

The plan involves digitisation of ration cards / beneficiary and other databases, computerisation of supply-chain management, setting up of transparency portal and grievance redressal mechanisms.

Digitisation of beneficiary database and computerisation of supply-chain are expected to be implemented by March 2013 and October 2013, respectively. This will help in weeding out bogus ration cards and better targeting of subsidies, an official release said today.

With computerisation of supply-chain, the movement of foodgrains up to the fair price shop level can be tracked, which in turn will help address the problem of leakage and diversion.

Under digitalised TPDS, it would also be possible to use facilities like SMS, e-mails, toll-free numbers etc to inform the beneficiary about the availability of supplies at the fair price shop, which will ensure timely and transparent distribution of foodgrains to beneficiaries as per their entitlement.

Transparency portal and social audit will further strengthen the functioning of FPSs and ensure accountability at various levels. Beneficiaries will also be able to register their grievances through toll free numbers and seek its resolution.

The cost of computrisation will be shared between the centre and the state governments at Rs489.37 crore and Rs394.70 crore, respectively.

However, for north-eastern states, the centre would take a larger share of around 90 per cent of the total cost with the state government bearing 10 per cent of the cost.