By Our Reporter
SHILLONG: The Centre is likely to release a total amount of Rs 43 crore by the first week of June for the proposed computerisation of the Public Distribution System (PDS) in the State, official sources said on Sunday.
Aimed at minimising malpractices in the PDS, the process is expected to ensure close monitoring of the stock in the Food Corporation of India (FCI) go downs besides helping the beneficiaries.
According to official sources, compilation of data of the BPL beneficiaries, required for the computerization process, has already begun.
“Since the Centre had earlier released funds to the State for strengthening the administrative service of the Government departments, we have been able to start the process (computerization of PDS) even before getting the funds allocated for it,” official sources said.
One of the major components of the computerization process is setting up control rooms to closely monitor the stock in the Food Corporation of India (FCI) go downs.
“We would also closely monitor the stocks which are being lifted by the Fair Price Shops and subsequently keep track of the delivery to the beneficiaries through the digitalised network,” official sources said.
According to reports, the Prime Minister’s Office has taken a keen interest in the computerisation process of PDS system across the country and is taking day to day stock of the progress made by each state and Union Territory in this regard.
The Supreme Court had also directed the various States Government to closely work with the centre in computerising the PDS to help reduce diversion of food grain.