The Centre will roll out within two months the direct cash transfer of food subsidies on a pilot basis in six Union Territories through the public distribution system. Briefing the media on the outcome of the State Food Ministers conference that concluded in New Delhi yesterday, Food and Public Distribution Minister, KV Thomas said, the Centre has also sought the views of state governments on the alternate model. He said, the pilot scheme in the UTs will be tested in the meantime.
The alternative model involves movement of foodgrains at near market prices up to the ration shops levels and transfer of food subsidy to the beneficiaries bank accounts so that food subsidy reaches the intended beneficiaries and is not cornered by vested interests. Mr. Thomas said, the move would go long way in curbing leakages of foodgrains meant for ration shops.