The correct answer is: d) All of the above
The Public Distribution System (PDS) is a food security system in India that provides subsidized food grains to India’s poor. The PDS is one of the largest food distribution systems in the world, and it plays a crucial role in ensuring food security for millions of Indians.
The PDS operates through a network of ration shops, which are government-run stores that sell food grains at subsidized prices. The PDS is open to all Indian citizens who are below the poverty line, and it is also available to some other groups, such as pregnant women and lactating mothers.
The PDS provides a number of benefits to its beneficiaries. It helps to ensure that everyone has access to affordable food, and it also helps to stabilize food prices. The PDS also has a number of social benefits, such as reducing poverty and malnutrition.
However, the PDS also has a number of challenges. One challenge is that the PDS is often inefficient and corrupt. Another challenge is that the PDS is not always able to reach all of the people who need it.
Despite its challenges, the PDS is an important part of India’s food security system. It provides a vital lifeline to millions of Indians, and it helps to ensure that everyone has access to affordable food.
Here is a brief explanation of each option:
- Availability of essential food grains: The PDS ensures that essential food grains are available to all Indians, regardless of their income. This is important because food is a basic need, and everyone should have access to it.
- Affordable prices for the poor: The PDS sells food grains at subsidized prices, which makes them affordable for the poor. This is important because the poor often have difficulty affording food.
- Food security in remote areas: The PDS operates in remote areas, which ensures that even people who live in remote areas have access to food. This is important because food security is a major concern in remote areas.