Shivraj Singh Chouhan Launches CBDC-Based DBT in Chandigarh, Paving the Way for Greater Transparency in PDS

Shivraj Singh Chouhan yesterday launched a Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC)-based Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system at an event held at Tagore Theatre in Chandigarh, chaired by Punjab Governor Shri Gulab Chand Kataria. Union Minister for Education, Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, and New and Renewable Energy Shri Pralhad Joshi and Union Minister of State for Food and Public Distribution Smt. Nimuben Jayantibhai Bambhaniya attended the event as special guests. Shri Chouhan said the initiative marks an important step towards bringing greater transparency, security and timeliness to the Public Distribution System (PDS). He said that under the leadership and guidance of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, there will be no compromise on the interests of farmers and the poor.

Singh Chouhan said the CBDC-based DBT system will enable payments for ration and foodgrains to reach beneficiaries directly, securely and transparently. The pilot launched in Chandigarh is intended to serve as a model for adoption across the country. Under the new system, technological safeguards have been incorporated to ensure that beneficiaries can use the funds only for purchasing foodgrains and other essential food items, preventing the money from being diverted for other purposes. At the same time, beneficiaries will have greater choice. In addition to wheat and rice, they will be able to opt for pulses or other essential food commodities. Shri Chouhan praised the departmental team and officials for developing the system and described the initiative as a major technological innovation.