Public distribution system, consumption pattern and the need for a transition from food security to nutrition security in India – An analysis

Public Distribution System (PDS) is a rationing measure. PDS plays a crucial role in food security by acting as a safety net by distributing essentials at a subsidised rate. Food security is a subject closely related to the well being of the majority of the people. With time, over the last 60 years, the Government of India have adopted different welfare policies to minimise food insecurity. To strengthen the public distribution system, in 2013, the National Food Security Act (NFSA) has been implemented where the Act ensures food and nutritional security for the most vulnerable communities through fair price shops. However, over the past couple of years, the idea of providing nutrition security is also gaining ground which is very important to consider in this context. The central objective of this paper is to analyse the PDS in India vis-a-vis the changing consumption pattern of beneficiaries and the need for a transition from the idea of food security to the idea of nutrition security. The paper is based on secondary data and literature made available from various secondary sources and the study is analytical.