Jan Poshan Kendras
- August 21, 2024
- Posted by: OptimizeIAS Team
- Category: DPN Topics
Jan Poshan Kendras
Sub: Schemes
Sec: Welfare
In a significant move towards enhancing the efficacy and reach of the Public Distribution System (PDS) in India, the Union Government has launched a pilot project to convert 60 Fair Price Shops (FPS) into “Jan Poshan Kendras” (Public Nutrition Centres). This initiative aims to address multiple dimensions of food security and public health by improving access to nutrition-rich food and providing additional income sources for FPS dealers. The pilot project, which targets select locations in Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, Rajasthan, and Telangana, underscores the government’s commitment to strengthening the food security ecosystem and advancing towards its broader goals for 2047.
Pilot Project Launch
The Union Minister of Food and Public Distribution, Pralhad Venkatesh Joshi, inaugurated the pilot project on August 20, 2024. The initiative will see the transformation of 15 FPS each in Ghaziabad (Uttar Pradesh), Ahmedabad (Gujarat), Jaipur (Rajasthan), and Hyderabad (Telangana) into Jan Poshan Kendras. These centres are designed to cater to the growing demand for improved nutritional options and enhance the financial stability of FPS dealers.
Features and Objectives of Jan Poshan Kendras
a. Nutritional Focus
The Jan Poshan Kendras will feature a storage model where 50% of the space is dedicated to nutrition-rich products, with the remaining space reserved for other household items. This shift aims to ensure a steady supply of essential nutritional foods to consumers.
b. Income Generation for FPS Dealers
The project is expected to boost the income of FPS dealers by providing them with additional revenue streams through the sale of a diverse range of products, thereby addressing their financial concerns.
Technological and Operational Enhancements
a. FPS Sahay Application
An on-demand Invoice Based Financing (IBF) application, FPS Sahay, developed by SIDBI, has been introduced. It aims to provide paperless, presence-less, collateral-free, cash flow-based financing to FPS dealers, facilitating smoother financial transactions.
b. Mera Ration App 2.0
The upgraded Mera Ration App offers enhanced features for better service delivery and user experience. It supports seamless access to ration services across different states.
c. Quality Management Systems (QMS)
QMS will monitor key transactions in real-time during procurement, storage, and distribution stages to ensure quality control.
d. Quality Manual Handbook
A comprehensive quality manual handbook has been introduced to detail procedures, standards, and policies, ensuring rigorous quality management.
Broader Government Initiatives
a. Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana (PMGKAY)
This scheme has been extended for another five years with a financial outlay of around Rs 12 lakh crore, aiming to enhance food security.
b. One Nation One Ration Card
This initiative facilitates seamless transactions across the country, promoting the integration and efficiency of the PDS.
Socio-Economic and Political Relevance
a. Socio-Economic Impact
The Jan Poshan Kendras will address nutritional deficiencies and improve health outcomes, particularly in underserved areas. By increasing the availability of diverse food options and enhancing financial stability for FPS dealers, the project aims to foster economic resilience and social well-being.
b. Political Implications
The initiative reflects the government’s proactive approach to reforming the PDS and its alignment with the Viksit Bharat 2047 vision. It demonstrates a commitment to tackling malnutrition, ensuring transparency, and reinforcing food security, which could influence public perception and support for the current administration.