Union Cabinet Approves Continuation of SARTHAK-PDS Programme
The Union Cabinet has approved the continuation of the SARTHAK-PDS programme for another five years. This development is part of the government's efforts to deepen technology-driven reforms in the public distribution system across the country. The programme has a total allocation of Rs 25,530 crore up to March 2031, aiming to modernise the existing public distribution system.
- •The Union Cabinet has approved the continuation of the SARTHAK-PDS programme for another five years, with a total allocation of Rs 25,530 crore up to March 2031.
- •This move aims to deepen technology-driven reforms in the public distribution system across the country.
- •The SARTHAK-PDS programme is designed to modernise the existing public distribution system instead of replacing it.
The Union Cabinet has approved the continuation of the SARTHAK-PDS programme for another five years, with a total allocation of Rs 25,530 crore up to March 2031. This move aims to deepen technology-driven reforms in the public distribution system across the country. The SARTHAK-PDS programme is designed to modernise the existing public distribution system instead of replacing it. Under the new framework, two existing schemes — financial support for intra-state movement of foodgrains and FPS dealer margins under the National Food Security Act (NFSA) — have been merged with the SMART PDS programme focused on technology reforms.
Key Provisions and Objectives
The SARTHAK-PDS programme has been structured around two objectives: ensuring continuous financial support for foodgrain movement and dealer margins, while building an integrated and citizen-oriented PDS network with interoperable systems across states and union territories. This integration is expected to address issues linked to logistics, handling of foodgrains, transportation efficiency, and grievance redressal mechanisms. The programme also aims to strengthen the implementation of the NFSA, which provides for subsidised foodgrains to approximately two-thirds of the country's population.
- ▸The National Food Security Act (NFSA) guarantees 5 kg of foodgrains per person per month at subsidised rates.
- ▸The SARTHAK-PDS programme will focus on technology-driven reforms, including the use of Aadhaar-enabled authentication for beneficiaries.
- ▸The programme will also aim to reduce leakage and diversion of foodgrains, improving the overall efficiency of the public distribution system.
- ▸The Public Distribution System (PDS) is a crucial component of India's food security framework, providing essential commodities to vulnerable populations.
Significance and Challenges
The continuation of the SARTHAK-PDS programme highlights the government's commitment to reforming the public distribution system and ensuring food security for all. However, the programme also faces challenges, including the need for effective implementation, monitoring, and evaluation. The success of the programme will depend on the ability of states and union territories to utilise the allocated funds efficiently and effectively. Additionally, the programme must address the concerns of fair price shop (FPS) dealers, who play a critical role in the last-mile delivery of foodgrains to beneficiaries.
Did You Know? The National Food Security Act (NFSA) has been instrumental in reducing poverty and hunger in India, with the country achieving a significant decline in the percentage of undernourished population, from 21.9% in 2004-06 to 14.8% in 2019-21, according to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations.
Way Forward
The SARTHAK-PDS programme has the potential to transform the public distribution system in India, making it more efficient, transparent, and accountable. To achieve this, the government must ensure that the programme is implemented in a phased and incremental manner, with a focus on building the capacity of states and union territories. The programme must also be closely monitored and evaluated to identify areas for improvement and address any challenges that arise during implementation. By leveraging technology and promoting citizen-centric governance, the SARTHAK-PDS programme can help achieve the vision of a food-secure India, as envisioned in the Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP).
Conclusion
In conclusion, the SARTHAK-PDS programme is a significant initiative aimed at modernising the public distribution system in India. The programme's focus on technology-driven reforms, citizen-centric governance, and effective implementation can help address the challenges faced by the public distribution system. By ensuring the successful implementation of the SARTHAK-PDS programme, the government can take a crucial step towards achieving the goal of food security for all, as mandated by the Right to Food under the National Food Security Act (NFSA) and the Constitution of India.
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Concepts Mentioned
Directive Principles of State Policy
Directive Principles of State Policy are guidelines for the government to ensure social and economic justice. They are significant as they aim to promote welfare and equality. The 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments are examples of these principles in action.
Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO)
The Food and Agriculture Organization is a UN agency dedicated to reducing hunger. It plays a significant role in global food security. FAO has 194 member states.
Public Distribution System (PDS)
The Public Distribution System is a government-run network providing essential commodities. It plays a crucial role in ensuring food security. India's PDS is one of the largest, covering over 800 million people.
Aadhaar
Aadhaar is a unique identity number issued to Indian residents. It holds significant importance as a proof of identity and address. Over 1.3 billion people have been assigned an Aadhaar number.
NFSA
The National Food Security Act is a law ensuring food security to citizens. It is significant for providing subsidized food grains. India implemented it in 2013.
National Food Security Act 2013
The National Food Security Act 2013 is a landmark legislation aimed at ensuring food security for approximately 67% of India's population, guaranteeing them access to subsidized food grains. This act is significant as it provides a legal entitlement to food, thereby reducing hunger and malnutrition. For instance, a family of five is entitled to 5 kg of rice or wheat per month at a subsidized rate of Rs 3 per kg.
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