The School of Economics at the University of Hyderabad successfully conducted a one-day IoE Dissemination Workshop on the “Public Distribution System in Telangana: Impact Assessment of E-PDS and Portability under Aadhaar Initiatives Pre- and Post-COVID-19.”
The event brought together esteemed academicians, policymakers, and researchers to discuss key issues surrounding the efficiency and reform of the PDS system. The workshop commenced with an inaugural session led by Prof. R. Vijay, Dean of the School of Economics, followed by an introductory speech by Dr. Krishna Reddy Chittedi, the workshop organizer and Associate Professor at the University. The keynote address was delivered by Prof Ramulu, Professor and Chairman Board of Studies, Department of Economics, Osmania University. The discussions highlighted significant gaps in PDS coverage, noting that 67% of India’s population is entitled to PDS benefits under the National Food Security Act (NFSA), but actual beneficiaries are considerably lower. Issues like low claim rates, beneficiary transaction costs, and logistical inefficiencies were debated, alongside potential technological solutions like GPS tracking, mobile ration shops, and Aadhaar-based targeting.
Key Panel speakers included:
Prof. Mallaiah – Professor, School of Economics, University of Hyderabad
Dr. Venkatanarayana Motkuri – Associate Professor, Centre for Economic and Social Studies (CESS), Hyderabad
Dr. K. Krishna Reddy – Associate Professor, Department of Economics, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Open University
Dr. Sweety Thomas – Project Co-PI and Independent Researcher, Kerala
Prof. Jajati Keshari Parida – Professor, School of Economics, University of Hyderabad
Dr Nitin Tagade, Associate Professor, School of Economics, University of Hyderabad
Mr. Balaraju Gajam – Research Associate, Indian School of Business, Hyderabad
Dr. N. Vijaya Raghavi – Associate Professor, Department of Economics, Government Degree College for Women (A), Begumpet
Dr G Babu Rao, Assitant Professor and Head, Department of Economics, Dr. Abdul Haq Urdu University, Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh
Panel discussions explored topics such as policy innovations for greater inclusion in PDS, the role of digital transformation in improving food security, and the impact of E-PDS on beneficiaries and ration dealers. Experts emphasized the need for supply chain monitoring, better storage infrastructure, and transaction cost reduction to improve accessibility for marginalized communities.
Workshop Concluded with remarks by Dr BN Rao , Assistant Professor, School of Economics, University of Hyderabad.
–By Dr. Krishna Reddy Chittedi, Associate Professor, School of Economics