Bhopal: The Central Government has approved the ₹25,530 crore Sarthak-PDS Phase 2 scheme to modernise India’s Public Distribution System (PDS) using Artificial Intelligence (AI) and advanced digital technologies.
Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav welcomed the decision and thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for prioritising welfare and food security for poor families.
AI-Powered ‘Nirmal, Asha and Saksham’ to Transform PDS System
Under the Sarthak-PDS Phase 2 initiative, the government will deploy three AI-driven digital systems:
- Nirmal – to identify and remove fake beneficiaries
- Saksham – to prevent grain theft using GPS and QR-code tracking
- Asha – to address public complaints through WhatsApp and chatbot support
Officials said these technologies will bring greater transparency, accountability, and efficiency to ration distribution across the country.
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Focus on Transparent and Leak-Proof Ration Distribution
CM Mohan Yadav said the initiative will make the ration delivery system:
- More transparent
- Accurate and technology-driven
- Leak-proof and corruption-resistant
He stated that eligible families will receive their food entitlements without delays or irregularities.
Digital Reforms Strengthened Over the Last Decade
The Chief Minister highlighted major digital reforms implemented in the Public Distribution System during the past ten years, including:
- Complete computerisation of Targeted Public Distribution System (TPDS)
- Implementation of IM-PDS and Smart PDS systems
- Launch of citizen-centric platforms such as:
- Mera Ration
- Ann Mitra
- Rightful Targeting Dashboard
- Ann Sahayata
These initiatives have improved beneficiary access and system transparency.
Aadhaar Seeding and e-POS Systems Improve Monitoring
According to officials, digitisation measures such as:
- Aadhaar-linked ration cards
- e-POS machines at fair price shops
- Online allocation systems
- Computerised supply-chain management
have significantly reduced black marketing and leakages in the ration supply network.
Strengthening Food Security Through Technology
The Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister expressed confidence that Sarthak-PDS Phase 2 will further strengthen India’s food security system and directly benefit millions of ration beneficiaries across the country.
He said the integration of AI and modern digital tools marks a major step toward inclusive and transparent governance.
Government’s Push for Smart Welfare Delivery
The Centre’s approval of the large-scale digital PDS reform reflects the government’s broader focus on:
- Technology-enabled welfare delivery
- Efficient subsidy management
- Transparent beneficiary systems
- Improved grievance redressal mechanisms
The initiative is expected to modernise ration distribution infrastructure nationwide.
