Topic: Issues related to direct and indirect farm subsidies and minimum support prices; Public Distribution System- objectives, functioning, limitations, revamping; issues of buffer stocks and food security; Technology missions; economics of animal-rearing.
6. Reforming the Public Distribution System (PDS) supply chain is essential to ensure that the system continues to serve as a critical safety net for food-insecure populations while minimizing inefficiencies, leakages, and wastage. Elaborate. (250 words)
Difficulty level: Easy
Reference: Insights on India
Why the question:
The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 3 and part of Mission-2024 Secure.
Key Demand of the question:
To write about the PDS, its role in food security and reforms that are needed in it.
Directive word:
Elaborate – Give a detailed account as to how and why it occurred, or what is the context. You must be defining key terms wherever appropriate and substantiate with relevant associated facts.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction:
Begin by giving context of PDS and its role in delivery of food grains.
Body:
In the first part, mention the various bottlenecks, limitations and the shortcomings with respect to PDS in India. Cite statistics and reports to substantiate your points.
Next, write about the steps that are required to ensure a seamless supply chain to overcome hunger and malnutrition.
Conclusion:
Conclude with a way forward.
