The government plans to digitize rations cards under the Targeted Public Distribution System (TPDS) to make it more effective and beneficial. The process is expected to be implemented in two phases in March and October next year. An official release said an amount of 884 crore rupees is expected to cost the project.

The release further added that it also provides for setting up of Transparency Portal and Grievance Redressal Mechanisms. The database will help in weeding out the bogus ration cards and better targeting of subsidies. With computerization of supply-chain, the movement of foodgrains upto Fair Price Shop, FPS, level can be tracked and the problem of leakage and diversion can be addressed. Facilities of SMS, e-mails and toll free numbers will be used to inform the beneficiary about the availability of the TPDS supplies in the Fair Price Shop, which will ensure timely and transparent distribution of foodgrains to beneficiaries as per their entitlement. Transparency portal and social audit will further strengthen the functioning of FPSs and ensure accountability at various levels.