Reforming the Public Distribution System to Address Food Deprivation and Equalise Primary Food Consumption
Recent analysis of the Household Consumption Expenditure Survey (2022-23) suggests that while extreme poverty in India has significantly declined, food deprivation remains a concern. Using the 'thali meal' as a metric, researchers found that a significant portion of the population cannot afford two balanced meals a day, even with PDS subsidies. The article proposes restructuring the Public Distribution System (PDS) by eliminating subsidies for well-off households and expanding them for the bottom 5% to 10% of the population. This targeted approach aims to ensure adequate protein intake through pulses and achieve a more equitable distribution of essential food items across all socio-economic fractiles.
Key Points
- The World Bank reports that extreme poverty in India (living on less than $2.15/day) fell to 2.3% in 2024.
- Food deprivation is measured by the ability to afford a 'thali meal' consisting of carbohydrates, proteins, and vitamins.
- The current PDS is criticized for being 'unwieldy and ineffective' as it spreads resources too thinly across all income groups.
- Expanding PDS to include more pulses is recommended to address protein deficiency among the poorest households.
Exam Facts
- The Household Consumption Expenditure Survey was conducted by the National Sample Survey (NSS) Office.
- The cost of a home-cooked thali was estimated at approximately ₹30 in 2023-24.
- The World Bank's extreme poverty line is set at $2.15 per day.
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