Scaling of Public Distribution System (PDS) After the Pandemic

Abstract The Public Distribution System (PDS) plays a crucial role in ensuring food security for millions in India. The COVID-19 pandemic posed significant challenges to its functioning highlighting the need for reforms. This paper examines how the PDS evolved after the pandemic analyzing improvements in technology supply chain efficiency and policy changes. It also explores issues such as inefficiencies corruption and accessibility barriers. The study suggests solutions like digitization direct benefit transfers (DBT) and better logistics. Using a mixed-methods approach the paper evaluates post-pandemic developments in PDS and their impact on food security. The findings show that while PDS has improved in many areas further efforts are needed to make it more inclusive and efficient.