Government pilots 'Jan Poshan Kendras': Ration shops get nutritional makeover

Food Minister Pralhad Joshi launches pilot project to transform Fair Price Shops into 'Jan Poshan Kendras' to boost nutrition access.

Food Minister Pralhad Joshi on Tuesday (August 20, 2024) launched a pilot project to transform 60 Fair Price Shops (FPS), also called ration shops, into 'Jan Poshan Kendras' across U.P., Gujarat, Rajasthan, and Telangana, aiming to boost their viability and improve nutrition access.

The pilot allows FPS dealers to diversify their inventory beyond subsidised grains. The revamped shops can now stock millets, pulses, dairy products, and daily essentials, potentially opening up new revenue streams for the dealers.

"This transformation will be a win-win," Mr. Joshi said at the launch event.

He highlighted the current operational inefficiencies, noting, "In some areas, FPS open for just 8-9 days, while others operate only once every three months. The rest of the time, these shops remain closed." The Minister emphasized that the existing commission structure for FPS dealers is inadequate, necessitating alternative approaches to utilize shop space and manpower more effectively.

Alongside the pilot, Mr. Joshi introduced an upgraded version of the 'Mera Ration' app and unveiled the Quality Manual Handbook, Contract Manual of the Food Corporation of India (FCI), Digital Quality Management System and NABL accreditation of the labs.

Food Secretary Sanjeev Chopra highlighted collaborative efforts with SIDBI to facilitate easy credit for FPS dealers and partnerships with the Skill Development Ministry to provide entrepreneurship training.

With approximately 5.38 lakh FPS operational across India, the successful implementation of this pilot could pave the way for a nationwide transformation of the ration shop network.