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Overview: The Public Distribution System (PDS) relates to distribution
of essential commodities to a large number of people mainly weaker sections of the
society through a network of Fair Price Shops (FPS) on recurring basis.
The major commodities covered under PDS are as follows:-
• Wheat
• Rice
• Sugar
• Kerosene
Some States also distribute additional items of mass consumption through the PDS
outlets such as cloth, exercise books, pulses, salt, tea, etc. PDS evolved as a
major instrument of the Governments economic policy for ensuring availability of
food grains to the public at affordable prices as well as for enhancing the food
security for the poor. PDS is operated under the joint responsibility of the Central
and the State Governments. The Central Government has taken the responsibility for
procurement, storage, transportation and bulk allocation of food grains, etc.
The responsibility for distributing the same to the consumers through the network
of Fair Price Shops (FPS) rests with the State Governments.
PDS is controlled by Public Distribution System (Control) Order 2001 under Essential
Commodities Act, 1955. Frequently Occurring Problems (FOPs) are as follows:
• Providing less quantity / adulterated stock
• Black marketing
• Problem with Ration Depot
• Shopkeeper not providing ration on time
• Unsatisfactory Redressal Complaint Redressal System:
In case of any complaint, consumer can contact:
Tier I: Fair Price Shop owner
Tier II: Food & Supply Officer of District or Department of
Food & Civil Supplies of State / Union Territory
Tier III: Consumer Forum
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