The Aryavarth Express
Agency(New Delhi): In a notable advancement for Digital India, the Secretary of the Department of Food and Public Distribution, Shri Sanjeev Chopra, launched a pilot project to integrate Fair Price Shops (FPSs) in Una and Hamirpur districts of Himachal Pradesh with the Open Network Digital Commerce (ONDC). This groundbreaking initiative marks the first instance of FPSs being onboarded onto ONDC.
This pilot, encompassing 11 FPSs—5 in Una and 6 in Hamirpur, aims to transform the conventional Fair Price Shops. It is designed to create additional income streams for FPS dealers while simultaneously improving satisfaction for beneficiaries. Shri Chopra emphasized the myriad benefits this initiative brings to FPS dealers, such as increased visibility in the digital marketplace, access to a broader customer base beyond the National Food Security Act (NFSA) beneficiaries, and the opportunity to compete equally with large retailers and e-commerce platforms.
The initiative also assists beneficiaries who may encounter difficulties in making online purchases. They can now approach FPS dealers to place online orders on their behalf, bridging the digital divide and enhancing accessibility.
Shri Chopra expressed confidence that the successful implementation of this pilot in Himachal Pradesh would serve as a template for expansion across the state and eventually nationwide. He also acknowledged the support of MicroSave Consulting (MSC) in implementing this pilot program.
Following the launch, a workshop was conducted for FPS dealers in Una and Hamirpur districts. This workshop provided guidance on product cataloguing, servicing orders, and understanding the commission structure on ONDC.
The launch event was attended by notable figures such as Ms. Anita Karn, Joint Secretary (PD), Shri Ravi Shankar, Director (PD), Shri Mitul Thapliyal, Partner at MSC, and Shri Saransh Agrawal from ONDC.
This initiative is a significant step in digitizing the public distribution system, enhancing the efficiency and reach of FPSs, and aligning them with modern digital commerce platforms. It exemplifies the government’s commitment to integrating technology into public services, thereby fostering a more inclusive and accessible digital economy in India.