Answer the following in 5-6 sentences each.

Explain the working of Public Distribution System in India.

The Indian government has established the Food Corporation of India (FCI) to purchase and sell food grains and to ensure the maintenance of food security. The PDS operates with the view of maintaining food security in the country. The FCI was established by the government to procure food from the farmers by giving them the minimum support price and storing them as buffer stocks to ensure food security in the country. These grains are then scientifically stored in godowns and distributed among the public through the Public Distribution System (PDS). This purchased and stored food grains are called buffer stock. It will help in reducing the crisis during the shortage of food grains.

The grains acquired and stored as buffer stock are distributed among the public through the Public Distribution System (PDS). These commodities are distributed among the people at the price less than the market price through fair price shops or ration shops. The commodities that are mainly distributed consists of kerosene, sugar, food grains, oil and other items. The government has opened ration shops in all the villages and towns. Nearly 16 crore families are being benefitted with the scheme.