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Major PDS Reform in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh: Over 87 Lakh Beneficiaries

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By HeadlineDock
5/28/2026

Sarthak PDS scheme is transforming how food benefits are distributed through technological advancements and increased financial support for states like Bihar and Uttar Pradesh. This initiative is expected to reach over 240 million ration cardholders, significantly improving the operational efficiency of the Public Distribution System.

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Highlights

  • - Over 87 lakh families in Bihar and 15 crore people in Uttar Pradesh will benefit from Sarthak PDS
  • - Central government provides financial assistance to cover transportation, storage, and distribution costs
  • - Commission for ration dealers increased, improving their operational conditions and service quality
  • - AI and digital systems utilized to streamline beneficiary registration and overall management

The Modi government has made significant changes to the Public Distribution System (PDS) through the Sarthak PDS scheme. This initiative aims to benefit over 87 lakh families in Bihar and 15 crore people in Uttar Pradesh, totaling more than 240 million beneficiaries across the two states alone. These reforms are part of an overall push by the government to improve the efficacy and accessibility of food distribution, leveraging technology and financial support.

Expansion of the PDS System

Under Sarthak, the Modi administration has taken steps to enhance the Public Distribution System. With 149.77 million beneficiaries in Uttar Pradesh and 87.11 million in Bihar, this scheme directly addresses the needs of a vast population in two key states.

The central government will provide financial assistance for state agencies to handle transportation, storage, and distribution costs. This move ensures that the entire process is more efficient and sustainable, reducing expenses at the state level.

Increased Commission for Ration Dealers

In response to long-standing demands from ration dealers, their commission has been increased under Sarthak. This decision not only improves their operational conditions but also enhances service quality across retail shops.

The use of artificial intelligence (AI) and digital systems for beneficiary registration and overall management further simplifies the process. By moving towards a more tech-driven system, the government aims to make food distribution quicker and more accessible, ultimately providing better support to those in need.