Write a brief note on Public Distribution System.

(a) The food procured by the FCI is distributed through government regulated ration shops among the poorer section of the society. This is called the Public Distribution System (PDS).
(b) Fair Price Shops: (i) There are about 4.6 lakh ration shops or fair price shops all over the country
(ii) These are present in most of the localities, villages, towns and cities.
(iii) These shops keep stock of food grains, sugar, kerosene oil for cooking.
(iv) The various items mentioned above are sold to people at a price lower than the market price.
(v) Any family with a ration card can buy a stipulated amount of these items, (e.g. 35 kg of grains, 5 ltrs kerosene etc.) every month from tire nearby ration shop.