Meghalaya leads the way in PDS reform with ‘Anna Chakra’ recognition

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaDecember 5, 2024

The Department of Food Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, Government of Meghalaya, is proud to announce its recognition as one of the states honoured for its exceptional efforts in advancing reforms in the Public Distribution System (PDS). This recognition was conferred during the launch of ‘Anna Chakra’, the PDS Supply Chain Optimisation Tool. The event, organised by the Department of Food and Public Distribution, Government of India, was inaugurated by Pralhad Joshi, Union Minister for Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, and New and Renewable Energy.

This accolade highlights Meghalaya’s commitment to enhancing transparency, efficiency, and accountability in the PDS, ensuring the timely and effective delivery of food grains to beneficiaries across the state.

Pravin Bakshi, IAS, Commissioner and Secretary of the Department of Food Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, commended the dedicated officials who worked tirelessly to meet stringent timelines. The deployment of the required server space within just four days demonstrated the state’s ability to adapt and innovate. This achievement was realised through collaboration with the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP), IIT Delhi, and NIC, whose technical expertise played a pivotal role in the successful implementation of these reforms.

The Minister, Comingone Ymbon, congratulated the Department on this significant milestone and praised the collective efforts that have positioned Meghalaya at the forefront of PDS reform nationally. Ymbon expressed his satisfaction with the measurable progress in supply chain management, emphasising that these advancements will significantly enhance the welfare of citizens by ensuring efficient resource allocation and improved service delivery.

Key Features of ‘Anna Chakra’ include optimising the supply chain for efficient distribution of food grains, enhancing resource allocation and management across all levels of the PDS, and strengthening accountability while reducing delays in supply.

Meghalaya’s inclusion among the recognised states is a testament to its proactive governance approach, leveraging technology and innovation to meet the needs of its people. These reforms serve as a model for other states aspiring to enhance their PDS operations and ensure food security for all.

The Department of Food Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, Government of Meghalaya, extends its deepest gratitude to the Department of Food and Public Distribution, Government of India, for this recognition. It also acknowledges the invaluable contributions of all stakeholders, including its dedicated officials and collaborating partners, whose combined efforts made this achievement possible.