SARTHAK Scheme Modernises PDS Operations

SARTHAK Scheme Modernises India’s Public Distribution System Operations

Why in the News ?

The Union Cabinet approved the SARTHAK Public Distribution System (PDS) Scheme with an outlay of ₹25,530 crore for five years. The scheme aims to modernise foodgrain distribution through advanced technologies, transparency measures, and improved last-mile delivery under the National Food Security Act (NFSA).

SARTHAK Scheme Modernises PDS Operations

Key Features Of SARTHAK PDS Scheme:

  • The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) approved the SARTHAK PDS Scheme to strengthen India’s food security system.
  • The scheme will operate for five years with a total allocation of ₹25,530 crore.
  • SARTHAK aims to modernise the entire Public Distribution System (PDS) value chain, from beneficiary selection to foodgrain delivery.
  • The initiative will use technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning, Blockchain, and Natural Language Processing (NLP).
  • It seeks to ensure greater transparency, efficiency, sustainability, and accountability in foodgrain distribution.

Objectives And Benefits Of The Scheme

  • The scheme focuses on reducing leakages, corruption, and transportation inefficiencies in the PDS network.
  • It will provide financial support for intra-state movement of foodgrains, handling operations, and fair price shop dealer margins.
  • SARTHAK also promotes a citizen-centric and interoperable PDS architecture for better last-mile service delivery.
  • Real-time monitoring, grievance redressal systems, and data-driven oversight through State Command Control Centres will strengthen implementation.
  • The government clarified that SARTHAK is not replacing the existing PDS but integrating and reforming ongoing schemes under a unified framework.

About Public Distribution System And NFSA:

●      The Public Distribution System (PDS) is India’s food security mechanism that distributes subsidised foodgrains to eligible households.

●      It operates under the National Food Security Act (NFSA), 2013, which legally entitles beneficiaries to subsidised grains.

●      The PDS network functions through Fair Price Shops (FPSs) across states and Union Territories.

●      NFSA covers nearly two-thirds of India’s population through priority households and Antyodaya Anna Yojana beneficiaries.

●      Recent reforms in PDS include One Nation One Ration Card (ONORC), digitisation of ration cards, Aadhaar authentication, and technology-driven monitoring systems.