MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE AND MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF CONSUMER AFFAIRS, FOOD & PUBLIC DISTRIBUTION (PROF. K.V. THOMAS)
a) & (b): As reported by Government of Jharkhand, it has reported that they registered the
Jharkhand State Food & Civil Supplies Corporation (JSFC).
(c) & (d): Government of Jharkhand has reported that a fresh survey for identification of
Below Poverty Line (BPL) families was conducted by the Rural Development Department for the
2002-07 period. Government of Jharkhand has also reported that it is not aware of any such
report.
(e) The Government has taken various measures to streamline the Targeted Public
Distribution (TPDS). A Revised Citizens’ Charter has been issued and is being implemented
since July, 2007. Monthly certification of delivery of allocated foodgrains to FPS and their
distribution to ration card holders has been introduced from April, 2008. Training programmes
for TPDS functionaries and awareness campaign for TPDS beneficiaries are being taken up.
Computerization of TPDS operations has been initiated. Use of new technologies such as Global
Positioning System to monitor movement of foodgrains under TPDS has been undertaken on a pilot
basis. Policy guidelines have also been issued on distribution of wheat flour under the TPDS,
so that the poor families are benefited. For increasing awareness on TPDS,
publicity-cum-awareness campaign is also being taken up.
A conference to share the Best Practices and Reforms in TPDS was also held recently on 12th
and 13th July, 2010 wherein various issues were discussed. These issues relate among others to
proper identification of beneficiaries, timely distribution of foodgrains, enhancing viability
of fair price shops, enhancing storage capacities, use of technology based initiatives in TPDS
and increasing public awareness.
