Section 12 — Reforms in Targeted Public Distribution System.

12. Reforms in Targeted Public Distribution System.—(1) The Central and State Governments 

shall endeavour to progressively undertake necessary reforms in the Targeted Public Distribution System 

in consonance with the role envisaged for them in this Act. 



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(2) The reforms shall, inter alia, include— 

(a) doorstep delivery of foodgrains to the Targeted Public Distribution System outlets; 

(b) application of information and communication technology tools including end-to-end 

computerisation in order to ensure transparent recording of transactions at all levels, and to prevent 

diversion; 

(c) leveraging ''aadhaar'' for unique identification, with biometric information of entitled 

beneficiaries for proper targeting of benefits under this Act; 

(d) full transparency of records; 

(e) preference to public institutions or public bodies such as Panchayats, selfhelp groups, co-

operatives, in licensing of fair price shops and management of fair price shops by women or their 

collectives; 

(f) diversification of commodities distributed under the Public Distribution System over a period 

of time; 

(g) support to local public distribution models and grains banks; 

(h) introducing schemes, such as, cash transfer, food coupons, or other schemes, to the targeted 

beneficiaries in order to ensure their foodgrain entitlements specified in Chapter II, in such area and 

manner as may be prescribed by the Central Government. 

CHAPTER VI 

WOMEN EMPOWERMENT