Technical snags hit PDS in district, over 60% beneficiaries await ration

Technical Issues Delay Wheat Distribution in Ludhiana

Technical snags hit PDS in district – Two weeks into the wheat ration distribution under the Public Distribution System (PDS), over 60% of beneficiaries in Ludhiana remain without their allocated food grains. Persistent technical glitches have disrupted the process, leaving only 38% of the ration quota distributed so far. Depot holders are grappling with recurring machine failures, verification errors, and software issues, which have significantly slowed progress and raised concerns about meeting the month-end target.

The initiative began on May 25, but frequent disruptions in the digital system used for beneficiary verification and ration allocation have created hurdles. Machines often restart unexpectedly while generating slips, and beneficiary data frequently fails to display correctly. These problems have extended verification times, leading to long queues and reduced daily distribution rates.

Meri Rasoi Scheme Adds to Operational Complexity

Compounding the issue, the ongoing ‘Meri Rasoi’ ration kit program has increased the workload at depots. While wheat is being dispensed under PDS, beneficiaries also receive additional kits, creating a dual burden for staff. District food and supplies controller (East) Lakhvir Singh confirmed the challenges, citing system technical glitches as the primary cause.

“Technical glitches are being reported regularly. In some cases, machines restart while generating slips, and at times, beneficiary data does not appear properly. The matter has already been brought to the notice of the head office, and efforts are being made to resolve the issues. Despite these challenges, we are working to complete the distribution process by the end of the month,” he said.

According to Singh, just 38% of the distribution has been completed in nearly 15 days. However, he expressed confidence that the pace would improve once the technical problems are resolved. The ‘Meri Rasoi’ initiative will continue until August, with beneficiaries receiving kits alongside their regular entitlements.

Depot operators also highlighted inconsistent ration kit supplies. Kits are sourced from Khanna, but several depots report shortages and delayed deliveries, further affecting distribution efficiency. This has left both beneficiaries and depot staff dependent on a system struggling to keep up with demand.

The slow progress has sparked worries among daily wage earners and families in economic hardship. With more than half the eligible population still awaiting their ration, officials are under pressure to clear the backlog before the month-end deadline.