The Union Cabinet has approved the SARTHAK-PDS scheme with a central outlay of ₹25,530 crore to strengthen India’s Public Distribution System through AI-based governance, digital tracking and modern supply chain management.

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• The Union Cabinet approved the SARTHAK-PDS scheme on May 27, 2026, for strengthening and modernising the Public Distribution System across India.
• The scheme has a total central financial outlay of ₹25,530 crore and will remain operational from April 2026 to March 2031.
• SARTHAK-PDS stands for Scheme for Assistance in Ration Transport and Handling–Income with Automation in PDS.
• The scheme merges two existing programmes related to foodgrain transportation support and technology-driven reforms in the Public Distribution System.
• SARTHAK-PDS will provide financial assistance for intra-state transportation, foodgrain handling and enhanced margins for Fair Price Shop dealers.
• The scheme will use Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Natural Language Processing and Blockchain technology for better PDS management and transparency.
• “Nirmal”, “ASHA” and “Saksham” are the three major technology platforms under the scheme for beneficiary registry, grievance redressal and supply chain monitoring.
• GPS-enabled vehicle tracking and QR code-based traceability will be used to improve foodgrain delivery and monitoring systems.