Thursday 4 October 2012

Chhattisgarh has one of the best Public Distribution System in the nation : Mr Kaushalendra Singh


The biggest sin for a king is the death of any of his subjects due to hunger
- Chanakya, in his treatise ‘Arthasastra’


Indian Institute of Management Raipur conducted a guest lecture by Mr. Kaushalendra Singh, Managing Director Chhattisgarh state civil supplies corporation on October 3, 2012. The lecture focused on the Evolution of best practices in Food grain management through procurement and Public distribution systems in Chhattisgarh.

The lecture discussed various aspects of public distribution system, and the usage of information technology and logistic facilities for effective and efficient collection and distribution of food grains throughout the state of Chhattisgarh.

He observed that the use of modern technology and the involvement of public in the PDS had been a major factor that ensured the achievement of the intended goal.

Recently the Supreme Court of India acknowledged the effectiveness of innovative policies followed in PDS by Chhattisgarh and has recommended implementation of similar policies in other states.

The state government’s role in procuring agricultural goods has improved the welfare of the farmers. It has saved the farmers from the distress caused by the intermediate agents. The farmers now receive right sum for their hard work void of exploitation at the hands of arhtiyas.

Improved accountability, transparency, instant payment through computer generated cheques and effective protection of the collected food grains have enforced the government’s commitment towards its people.  

 He commented that several legal and structural reforms were undertaken to deliver these benefits to the farmers and the ration cardholders. Removal of 2.80 lakh fake ration cards has helped the government to identify the real demand within the state.  The Dal bhat Kendra is an initiative taken by the government to provide healthy and tasty food for the below poverty line citizens.

All these measures clearly radiated the amount of political and bureaucratic will required in developing an effective public distribution system in the state.

The lecture closed with an interactive session with the students on the intricacies involved in the implementation and improvisation of the innovative systems designed for these purposes.

Prof. B. S. Sahay , Director of Indian Institute of Management Raipur gave a vote of thanks to Mr. Kaushalendra Singh for sharing his valuable insights.



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