Major PDS Reform: Govt Introduces AI-Based Registration, To Impact 80 Crore Ration Beneficiaries

A major decision was taken in the Union Cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, which is set to directly impact nearly 80 crore ration beneficiaries across the country. Briefing the media after the meeting, Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said that the government is running a large-scale Public Distribution System programme covering around 80 crore people. He said three key changes have been introduced under the revamped PDS framework. These include enhanced support for state governments, increased use of technology in implementation, and the introduction of Artificial Intelligence-based beneficiary registration. According to the government, the use of AI will streamline the registration process for PDS beneficiaries and improve system efficiency. The reforms are aimed at making the ration distribution system more transparent, technology-driven, and better coordinated between the Centre and states.