• UGI USER
  • Sep 06, 2024
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NATIONAL FOOD SECURITY ACT (NFSA) REVAMPS PUBLIC DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM

Why in the news?

The implementation of PDS reforms under the National Food Security Act (NFSA) 2013 has significantly reduced leakages, improving food security across India, as indicated by recent survey data.

Key PDS Reforms under NFSA:

  • NFSA 2013 expanded PDS coverage to reduce exclusion errors and improve access to food grains.
  • Reforms included reduced PDS prices, doorstep delivery, digitization, and handing management to local bodies.
  • States like Bihar, Odisha, and Chhattisgarh saw dramatic reduction in leakages post-reform.

Impact on PDS Leakages:

  • Leakages in the PDS reduced from 7% (2011-12) to 22% (2022-23), per NSS and Household Consumption Expenditure Survey (HCES).
  • States that reformed early, like Chhattisgarh and Odisha, achieved even lower leakage rates.
  • Despite improvements, leakages increased in some traditionally efficient states, such as Tamil Nadu.
source:slideshare
About National Food Security Act (NFSA), 2013:

  • Notified: 10th September 2013
  • Objective: Ensure food and nutritional security by providing affordable, quality food.
  • Coverage: 75% rural, 50% urban population (67% of total population).
  • Eligibility: Priority households under TPDS, Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) households.

Provisions:

  • 5 kg foodgrains/person/month at Rs. 3/2/1 for rice/wheat/coarse grains.
  • AAY households get 35 kg foodgrains/month.
  • Maternity benefit of Rs. 6,000 for pregnant and lactating women.
  • Meals for children up to 14 years.
  • Grievance redressal mechanisms at district and state levels.

Associated Article:

https://universalinstitutions.com/public-distribution-system/