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The Food Security Act has revamped the PDS
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Context
The National Food Security Act (NFSA) 2013 aimed to ensure food security through an improved Public Distribution System (PDS) in India. Despite initial concerns about high leakages in the PDS, recent data from the Household Consumption Expenditure Survey (HCES) 2022-23 shows a reduction in leakages, prompting a review of the effectiveness of the NFSA reforms.
PDS Leakages and Reforms
- Initial Concerns: In 2011-12, PDS leakages were high at 41.7%, causing apprehension about the system's effectiveness.
- Reform Success: States like Bihar, Chhattisgarh, and Odisha saw significant reductions in leakages due to early PDS reforms, showcasing the potential for nationwide improvements.
- Current Estimates: As per HCES 2022-23, leakages have decreased to 22%, indicating progress but still highlighting areas for improvement.
PDS Coverage and Expansion
- Increased Coverage: The NFSA expanded PDS coverage, increasing the proportion of households using the system from around 50% in 2011-12 to 70% in 2022-23.
- Coverage Shortfall: Despite expansion, the Centre falls short of NFSA’s mandated coverage, with only about 59% of the population having access to PDS as beneficiaries.
- State Variations: PDS reforms have led to varying improvements across states, with some states like Tamil Nadu experiencing increased leakages despite previously effective systems.
PDS Performance and Challenges
- Impact of Aadhaar: Aadhaar-based biometric authentication did not significantly reduce leakages compared to offline systems, questioning the efficacy of this reform.
- Innovations and Criticisms: New measures such as eKYC and cash transfers are seen as potentially disruptive and may undermine the effectiveness of the PDS.
- Policy Recommendations: Focus should be on completing the Census to address exclusions and including more nutritious items in the PDS, rather than on unproven technological fixes.
Practice Question
Q. Discuss the effectiveness of the National Food Security Act (NFSA) 2013 in improving the Public Distribution System (PDS) in India. What are the major challenges faced, and how can they be addressed to ensure better food security?
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