(a) whether the Public Distribution System is collapsing due to widespread corruption;
(b) if so, the facts thereof;
(c) whether the Government propose to monitor the scheme more effectively; and
(d) if so, the steps taken/proposed to be taken in this regard?
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF CONSUMER AFFAIRS, FOOD AND PUBLIC DISTRIBUTION
( SHRI SUBHASH MAHARIA )
(a): No Sir.
(b): Does not arise.
(c)&(d): The Public Distribution System (Control) Order, 2001 had been issued by the
Government on 31st August, 2001 in order to streamline the functioning of the Targeted Public
Distribution System and to make it more effective and accountable. Any offence committed in
violation of the provision of the Order invokes criminal liability under the Essential
Commodities Act, 1955. A Task Force has been constituted to look into the irregularities in the
implementation of the TPDS and Antyodaya Anna Yojana in the identified areas. The State
Governments are also required to furnish Utilisation Certificates confirming that the foodgrains
lifted from the Central Pool have been distributed to the intended beneficiaries under the TPDS.