The Tripura government is making strides towards improving the public distribution system (PDS) with new initiatives aimed at enhancing transparency and efficiency, as announced by Food, Civil Supplies, and Consumer Affairs Minister Sushanta Chowdhury.
During a state-level discussion with officials, ration dealers, and transport contractors, Minister Chowdhury unveiled the introduction of PVC ration cards to replace the outdated paper-based ones, starting distribution from August 28. A total of 4.78 lakh PVC ration cards have been prepared in the first phase and will be distributed by ration dealers in the presence of local public representatives.
Proud of Tripura’s success in PDS, Minister Chowdhury stated, “Tripura is leading in the North East and ranks third or fourth in the country in terms of PDS performance. We have achieved 81 percent success in e-KYC and aim to reach 100 percent to become the top state in the country.”
In addition to the PVC cards, 600 ration shops are being transformed into model ration shops in the initial phase, with increased commissions for dealers under Antyodaya Anna Yojana and the Priority Group. The government is also subsidizing lentils and sugar by Rs 25 and Rs 15 per kilo respectively, and will provide atta, flour, and semolina during the upcoming Durga festival.
The Special Secretary of the department, Debapriya Bardhan, highlighted the importance of the discussion in ensuring smooth and transparent operations of ration shops across Tripura. He emphasized that consumers can now register complaints through the Mera Ration App and Anna Sahayati App for improved accountability.
As a part of the initiative, Minister Chowdhury and other dignitaries officially handed over the new PVC ration cards to dealers and consumers, marking a significant step towards a more efficient and consumer-friendly PDS in Tripura.
