1. Challenges in Public Distribution System (PDS) and the Right to Food
Introduction
The Public Distribution System (PDS) is a vital government initiative aimed at ensuring food security for marginalized and economically weaker sections of society. However, recent reports from states like Jharkhand, Odisha, and Bihar highlight critical flaws in PDS implementation, such as exclusion errors, bureaucratic hurdles, and exploitation, particularly affecting vulnerable communities like the Musahars.
Key Issues in PDS Implementation
- Exclusion Errors:
- A substantial number of households have been removed from PDS rolls.
- Many marginalized groups, including the Musahar community in Bihar, lack access to ration cards.
- Bureaucratic Hurdles:
- Complex documentation requirements like Aadhaar cards and proof of residence exclude vulnerable groups.
- States like Jharkhand mandate biometric verification, creating further barriers.
- Corruption and Exploitation:
- Middlemen charge bribes (₹3,000 or more) to process ration card applications.
- Delays in issuing ration cards (over 18 months) worsen the crisis.
- FPS dealers often under-deliver entitlements, providing lower-quality rice like “Usna” rice.
- Digitalization Challenges:
- Digital governance reforms often lack a human-centric approach, leading to systemic inefficiencies.
Impact on Vulnerable Communities
- Musahar Community (Bihar):
- Historically marginalized and pushed to destitution.
- Face food insecurity due to supply chain breakdowns and systemic neglect.
- Lack of Accountability:
- Government agencies fail to adhere to the 2015 Supreme Court directive to issue ration cards within 30 days of application.
Way Forward
- Policy Reforms:
- Simplify documentation processes and reduce reliance on digital-only systems.
- Strengthen grievance redressal mechanisms for timely resolution.
- Community-Centric Solutions:
- Actively involve marginalized communities in decision-making.
- Provide outreach programs to ensure awareness of PDS entitlements.
- Accountability and Monitoring:
- Strict action against corruption and middlemen.
- Regular audits of PDS operations at state and local levels.
Conclusion
The right to food is enshrined under Article 21 of the Constitution as part of the right to life. The PDS, while crucial for food security, must overcome systemic challenges to ensure its benefits reach the intended beneficiaries. A more inclusive, transparent, and accountable approach is critical for upholding the fundamental right to food for all citizens.
Mains Practice Question |
Q. Despite being a cornerstone of India’s food security framework, the Public Distribution System (PDS) continues to face significant challenges in reaching marginalized communities. Discuss the key issues in PDS implementation and suggest measures to enhance its efficiency and inclusiveness. |
2. River Interlinking: A Solution or Environmental Disaster?
Introduction
The Ken-Betwa River Link Project, inaugurated in December 2024, aims to address water scarcity in the Bundelkhand region. While touted as a solution for inter-basin water transfers, the project has sparked environmental and ecological concerns, particularly regarding its impact on river ecosystems, climate change, and regional biodiversity.
Key Features of the Ken-Betwa Project
- Objective: Transfer surplus water from the Ken River to the Betwa River to address water scarcity.
- Infrastructure: Includes a dam located in the Panna Tiger Reserve, risking the submergence of critical wildlife habitats.
- Cost: Estimated at ₹45,000 crore.
Challenges and Concerns
- Environmental and Ecological Impact:
- Disrupts natural hydrographic systems, leading to the loss of wetlands and biodiversity.
- Panna Tiger Reserve’s wildlife and ecosystems face risks of submergence.
- Climate change could exacerbate altered rainfall and river flow patterns.
- Economic Feasibility:
- High financial burden on taxpayers, with uncertain long-term benefits.
- Examples of similar projects globally, such as the Kissimmee River channelization in Florida, highlight environmental disasters and cost overruns.
- Neglect of Eco-Services:
- Free-flowing rivers provide vital eco-services like flood mitigation, sediment transport, and groundwater recharge.
- The project’s focus on water diversion overlooks these critical functions.
- Policy and Planning Gaps:
- Politicization of river interlinking as a “grand solution” ignores scientific and community concerns.
- Lack of a holistic approach to integrated watershed management.
Alternative Solutions for Water Management
- Improved Watershed Management:
- Focus on groundwater recharge and rainwater harvesting.
- Enhance agricultural water-use efficiency.
- Decentralized Water Governance:
- Engage local communities in water resource management.
- Promote context-specific solutions based on local hydrogeological conditions.
- River Conservation:
- Prioritize river eco-services over massive engineering projects.
- Protect wetlands and floodplains as natural water storage systems.
Conclusion
While river interlinking projects like Ken-Betwa promise solutions to water scarcity, their environmental and economic costs outweigh the benefits. Sustainable water management strategies must prioritize ecological balance, community involvement, and climate resilience. The focus should shift from ambitious engineering projects to preserving India’s natural hydrological systems.
Mains Practice Question |
Q. River interlinking projects are often promoted as a panacea for water scarcity in India. Critically analyze the environmental, economic, and social implications of such projects. Suggest alternative strategies for sustainable water management.
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