The Future of PDS: Innovations, Challenges, and Impact on Beneficiaries

Year : 2025 | Volume : 12 | Issue : 02 | Page : 12-21
    By

    Siddhartha Narayan Wakude,

  • Balaji B. Kamble,

  1. Research Scholar, Department of Library Science, Smt. Chandibai Himathmal Mansukhan College, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India, ,
  2. Research Guide, Department of Library Science, Shri Chinai College of Commerce and Economics, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India, ,

Abstract

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The Public Distribution System (PDS) in India serves as a critical instrument in combating hunger and ensuring food security among the country’s economically weaker sections. It operates through a vast network that provides subsidized food grains and essential commodities to millions of citizens. Despite its significance, the PDS continues to face multiple operational challenges, including inefficiencies such as diversion of supplies, widespread corruption, pilferage, and the exclusion of genuine beneficiaries due to flawed targeting. These shortcomings often compromise the system’s intended outcomes. This study examines the evolving landscape of the PDS, focusing on the integration of technological solutions aimed at overcoming its limitations. Innovations such as the digitalization of records, biometric authentication through Aadhaar, GPS-enabled tracking of food supplies, automation of fair price shops, Direct Benefit Transfers (DBT), and emerging possibilities like blockchain-based supply chain management are explored for their capacity to enhance transparency, reduce fraud, and improve delivery efficiency. However, the implementation of such technologies is not without obstacles. Challenges include inadequate digital infrastructure in rural regions, technological illiteracy among beneficiaries, authentication failures due to poor connectivity or data mismatches, and resistance from vested interests. These issues are critically analyzed in the paper. The study also discusses the socio- economic implications of these reforms on beneficiaries, emphasizing the need for inclusive, participatory, and transparent governance mechanisms. Ultimately, this study aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of how a modernized and resilient PDS can contribute to building a more equitable and food-secure nation.

 

Keywords: Digital transformation, biometric authentication, DBT, transparency, PDS

[This article belongs to Journal of Advancements in Library Sciences ]

How to cite this article:
Siddhartha Narayan Wakude, Balaji B. Kamble. The Future of PDS: Innovations, Challenges, and Impact on Beneficiaries. Journal of Advancements in Library Sciences. 2025; 12(02):12-21.
How to cite this URL:
Siddhartha Narayan Wakude, Balaji B. Kamble. The Future of PDS: Innovations, Challenges, and Impact on Beneficiaries. Journal of Advancements in Library Sciences. 2025; 12(02):12-21. Available from: https://journals.stmjournals.com/joals/article=2025/view=0


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Regular Issue Subscription Review Article
Volume 12
Issue 02
Received 26/04/2025
Accepted 02/05/2025
Published 13/05/2025
Publication Time 17 Days
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