Gujarat is set to introduce a technology-driven system in the Public Distribution System (PDS) to ensure easier access to subsidised food for nearly 75 lakh ration cardholders across the state.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah will inaugurate the first food ATM in the Sabarmati area of Ahmedabad on February 15, along with the launch of digital food coupons. Similar food ATMs will later be installed in all districts, enabling beneficiaries to collect their entitled food items at their convenience.
The Food and Civil Supplies Department has introduced an AI-powered real-time monitoring system aimed at improving transparency and efficiency in distribution. Under the new system, beneficiaries will not need to carry physical ration cards or undergo biometric authentication. Instead, they will be able to claim their quota of grains, pulses and edible oil by scanning QR-code-based digital food coupons at ration shops.
Officials said the technology-driven system is expected to reduce complaints related to delays, shortages and irregularities in grain distribution. The AI platform will also monitor the allocation and supply of food items to ration shops in real time.
Additionally, the department plans to supply pre-packaged pulses such as chana and tuver dal in standardised weights to address issues of underweight and quality in earlier distributions.