PDS shops are now approved at the Gram Panchayat level, with nodal officers managing construction and distribution in the area.

Collector Namrata Jain explained the significance of this advancement, highlighting previous hardships faced by local residents. “Earlier, villagers in interior areas had to walk 50-70 km for ration, which was even more difficult during the rains. Now, PDS shops have been approved at the Gram Panchayat level, many are under construction, and ration is delivered directly to villages by tractor. Nodal officers ensure proper arrangements, quality checks, and smooth distribution. Community buildings, PDS shops, ashrams, anganwadis and schools are being set up, while ration continues to reach villages even where storage facilities are not yet available,” she said.

Local resident Gudduram Juri described the positive impact of the PDS improvements. “Before, we faced difficulties due to the rain and the scorching sun. The roads weren’t fully developed… We used to collect our rations from here, from Orchha. It is about 7-8 kms away. We used to come on foot. We faced many difficulties. It was extremely difficult to navigate the rocky terrain while carrying heavy loads, and we often had to wade through deep water and rain. Now, we transport ration by tractor,” he said, expressing gratitude to the Collector for ongoing support.

Another resident recalled challenges linked to widespread Naxalism in the area. “Now, things are convenient; a road has been built… When the Naxalites were active here previously, they used to completely block off the road… We used to go to Orcha, a distance of 20 kms (to get the ration). Our children would go hungry, and we had to travel 20 kms just to bring back rice… Now, rations are being delivered directly to your village… we receive items such as rice, ghee, salt, sugar, and chickpeas,” she stated.

The Public Distribution System, designed to manage scarcity by distributing food grains at affordable prices, remains a central element of government food policy. It is intended to supplement, not fully supply, the food requirements of households. Operated jointly by the Central and State/UT Governments, the system involves the Food Corporation of India handling procurement, storage, transportation, and bulk allocation of food grains to State Governments.

State Governments are responsible for operational functions, including allocation within the state, identifying eligible families, issuing ration cards, and supervising Fair Price Shops (FPSs). Currently, wheat, rice, sugar, and kerosene are distributed through PDS, with some states also providing pulses, edible oils, iodised salt, and spices.