Atal Bihari Vajpayee Institute of Good Governance and Policy Analysis

This study, conducted from July 1, 2023, to September 30, 2023, assessed the implementation of the National Food Security Act (NFSA), 2013 across the districts of Vidisha, Ratlam, Tikamgarh, and Barwani in Madhya Pradesh. The evaluation focused on key aspects of the Public Distribution System (PDS), including scheme awareness, service delivery quality, accessibility, targeting errors, leakages, and the viability of Fair Price Shops (FPS) operations. The study found high levels of beneficiary awareness regarding NFSA eligibility, accurate targeting of Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) households, and satisfactory FPS operations. However, challenges emerged related to the use of surveillance technology and biometric authentication. Although awareness about the portability of benefits (ONORC) was mixed, its usage remained limited. The study also highlighted concerns about the taste of fortified rice, despite high acceptance levels, indicating a need for product refinement. These findings provid