SHILLONG: The Centre has released the first installment of the proposed computerization of the Public Distribution System (PDS) in the State.
“Out of the Rs 43 crore which has been earmarked, the Centre has released a total amount of Rs 5.4 crore as the first installment,” a senior government official informed here on Wednesday.
The senior government official also informed that a Project Management Unit (PMU) has been constituted which would be responsible to oversee the implementation of this project.
“The first meeting of the PMU is likely to be held very soon,” a senior government said.
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) godowns 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 of control rooms to closely monitor the stock in the Food Corporation of India (FCI) godowns.
“We will 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 digitalized network,” official sources said.
According to reports, the Prime Minister’s Office has taken a keen interest in the computerization 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 computerizing the PDS to help reduce diversion of food grain.