<br/>In Haryana, a Biometric based smart cards system for supply of PDS food items has been launched in Panchkula on a pilot basis today. Union Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution Minister, Mr. Sharad Pawar has launched the Smart Card Project through Video Conferencing at the National Conference of Food Secretaries of all states in New Delhi. The Smart Cards have been given to around 1600 families under PDS. The cards will take the place of conventional paper ration card.