SARTHAK-PDS
In May 2026 the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs folded two running public-distribution programmes into one umbrella scheme, SARTHAK-PDS, backed by a Central outlay of Rs.25,530 crore through 2030-31. It combines the money that reimburses States for shifting foodgrains inside their own borders and paying ration-shop dealers with the technology-modernisation drive known as SMART PDS, aiming at a leak-proof, AI-assisted ration system for the 81.35 crore people entitled under the National Food Security Act.
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