DC Reviews Public Distribution System in Mandi

Mandi, October 5: Deputy Commissioner Apoorv Devgan chaired a meeting of the Public Distribution Committee to review the availability and quality of essential commodities, market inspections and digital services related to ration cards in the district.

Devgan directed officials to ensure regular and quality supply of essential commodities to consumers through the public distribution system. He also instructed officials to conduct regular inspections of markets and fair price shops and take action against irregularities as per rules.

From January to August 2026, the district distributed 31,066.8 metric tonnes of flour, 19,192.4 metric tonnes of rice, 3,699.3 metric tonnes of pulses, 3,578 metric tonnes of sugar, 25,33,934 litres of edible oil and 1,216.4 metric tonnes of salt through the public distribution system.

During the period, 6,487 inspections were conducted. Officials seized 4,787 kg of polythene and recovered a fine of Rs 36,000. Fines totalling Rs 78,664 were imposed for irregularities at fair price shops, wholesale godowns and mills. Another 1,190 kg of fruits and vegetables were seized, with Rs 67,110 recovered in fines. In addition, 68 LPG cylinders were seized and Rs 1,09,250 was recovered as fine, taking the total fines collected during the period to Rs 2,91,024.

All 871 fair price shops in the district have been equipped with e-PoS machines, and dealers have been trained in their operation. Aadhaar seeding has been completed, while mobile seeding has reached 96.59 per cent. Face e-KYC is also underway to achieve complete e-KYC coverage.

The meeting also reviewed implementation of the National Food Security Act. Officials said 4,07,403 beneficiaries in the district are covered under the Act and are receiving ration through the public distribution system.

It was further informed that fortified rice is being regularly provided under the Mid-Day Meal scheme to 38,786 students in 1,063 primary and 753 upper-primary schools. Under the Janani Suraksha Yojana, financial assistance of Rs 2,77,300 has been directly transferred to 350 beneficiaries. Anganwadi centres are providing nutritional support to 26,246 children aged six months to three years, 7,662 children aged three to six years, 5,029 pregnant women and 4,346 lactating mothers.

The meetings were conducted by District Food and Civil Supplies Controller Brijendra Singh.