free ration: Central Government takes big decision regarding Ration system. A significant decision was made at the Union Cabinet meeting chaired by the Prime Minister. This decision will directly impact 800 million ration consumers. The government has made a significant decision regarding the ration system (PDS – Public Distribution System). The “SARTHAK-PDS” scheme has been launched for this purpose. Approximately Rs 25,530 crore will be spent on this entire scheme.
Three significant updates to the PDS scheme
Following the Union Cabinet meeting, Ashwini Vaishnav revealed that a program is in progress to supply rations to 800 million individuals across the nation. Three modifications have been introduced to this impactful PDS scheme. These changes involve supporting state governments, utilizing technology, and now incorporating AI to register PDS beneficiaries.
Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnav stated, “State governments have been struggling financially to transport grain from the extensive Food Corporation of India (FCI) warehouses to various districts, blocks, and ultimately to ration shops. The central government will now offer financial support to the states.”
The second modification is an increase in the commission for ration shop owners (dealers). The Union Minister mentioned, “The commission for ration dealers had not seen an increase for quite some time. There has been a persistent demand for a rise in dealer commissions. Today, the government has acknowledged this request and decided to raise their commission.”
The third and final modification involves the adoption of new technology to enhance the entire ration system, making it more modern and transparent. The Union Minister remarked, “The government will fund the cost of ration delivery from this substantial budget, boost shopkeepers’ earnings, and digitalize and modernize the entire system.”
Government’s strategies to address the heat wave
Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnav stated, “The ongoing heat wave situation was reviewed with all ministers. Numerous tweets were dispatched to share the Prime Minister’s message with the nation. In response to that message, we discussed specific actions that each ministry and department could undertake within their respective areas.”
He added, “We deliberated on measures to provide relief and ensure the safety of Indian citizens during the heat wave, with a particular emphasis on the facilities and actions that can be implemented by the Ministry of Health, the water resources sector, and other related sectors. The Prime Minister stated very clearly that when facing such major challenges, we must approach them with a ‘whole of nation spirit.'”
