Why is this in the News?
The Union Ministry of Food and Public Distribution has launched a suite of digital initiatives aimed at modernizing warehousing, enhancing supply chain efficiency, and ensuring transparency in the Public Distribution System (PDS).
Key Digital Interventions
1. ASHA (Anna Sahayata Holistic AI Solution)
- Purpose: A low-cost, AI-driven platform designed to collect feedback from PDS beneficiaries regarding entitlement delivery and foodgrain quality.
- Mechanism: Utilizes AI-enabled outbound calls to interact with beneficiaries in their preferred regional languages.
- Key Features:
- Multilingual Support: Powered by Bhashini’s multilingual AI infrastructure (under the India AI Mission).
- Sentiment Analysis: Automatically categorizes grievances and gauges beneficiary satisfaction.
- Cost-Efficiency: Operates at a fraction of the cost (₹5 lakh) of traditional call centers.
- Reach: Targets 20 lakh beneficiaries monthly.
2. Bhandaran 360 (High-Tech Warehousing)
- Owner: Central Warehousing Corporation (CWC).
- Function: An Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) platform integrating 41 core functions including warehouse management, finance, and project monitoring.
- Objective: To streamline operations and reduce turnover time in logistics.
3. ANNA DARPAN
- Tech Stack: A microservices-based platform replacing the legacy Depot Online System.
- Goal: To provide real-time visibility into stock levels and depot operations.
4. Smart EXIM Warehouse System
- Target Area: Specifically designed for Container Freight Stations (CFS) and general warehouses to facilitate smoother export-import logistics.
Strategic Significance :
- Governance & Accountability: Direct feedback loops via ASHA ensure that Fair Price Shops (FPS) are held accountable for quality and quantity.
- Logistics Efficiency: Aligns with the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan by synchronizing transportation and storage, thereby reducing overall logistics costs.
- Technological Sovereignty: Demonstrates the practical application of indigenous AI tools (Bhashini) in public service delivery.
