Public Distribution System: Now, sms-based structure to keep track of all transactions

Kolkata: In a complete overhaul of Public Distribution System (PDS) in the state, the state Food and Supplies department is developing an sms-based system to keep the beneficiaries updated about the quantity of their respective rations and status of all transactions while withdrawal from ration shops.

"When a person applies for a ration card there is an option of mentioning the mobile number. As soon as his application gets approved he will be getting an sms. Following this he would also be informed through sms that his ration card has been dispatched. He would be intimidated by the consignment number of the speed post so that he himself can keep track," said a senior official of the department.

Most importantly after receipt of the ration card, the concerned person need not require to go to the ration shop or ration dealer for activation of the card. He can activate the same by sending an sms at an earmarked mobile number. As soon the card is activated the person can use the card for withdrawing food grains. When the person will be withdrawing ration, he would get an sms on the exact quantity of rice or atta that he has withdrawn and the price of the stuff (free till June 2021) along with the total number of ration cards possessed by his family.

"This will ensure that the beneficiary is not fleeced by the ration dealer by giving him less than his allotted ration during withdrawal," added the official.

If a person applies for a shift of ration shop then also he would be getting sms pertaining to his application.

Parwez Ahmad Siddiqui, Secretary of the department said that we are starting this service for those persons whose mobile numbers are already available in our database. "Those who do not have their mobile numbers linked with their aadhar card would visit their respective ration shops and register," he added.

The department is also introducing OTP based mobile transactions to ensure that only genuine beneficiaries withdraw ration. There have been complaints of ration dealers keeping ration cards of customers in their own custody for some purpose and withdrawing their allotted ration using the cards.

"A person will get an OTP in his mobile number and he will have to tell that OTP while withdrawing," said an official.