The Public Distribution System (PDS) in Karnataka represents one of the most significant welfare interventions aimed at ensuring food security among vulnerable populations. Implemented under the National Food Security Act, the system provides subsidized food grains to millions of households, particularly targeting Priority Households (PHH) and Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) beneficiaries. Karnataka has emerged as a leading state in PDS implementation, serving over 4.5 crore beneficiaries with subsidized rice and other essential commodities. The integration of digital reforms such as e-POS and Aadhaar-based authentication has significantly reduced leakages and improved transparency. This empirical study examines the impact of PDS on beneficiaries in Tumakuru district through a mixed-method approach involving a primary survey of 400 households, 20 Focus Group Discussions (FGDs), and secondary data analysis. The findings reveal high satisfaction levels (85%), improved nutritional security (75%), and measurable economic benefits, including monthly savings of approximately ₹500. Despite these achievements, challenges such as quality concerns, exclusion of migrant populations, and delays in Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) persist. The study concludes that while Karnataka's PDS model is highly effective, targeted reforms are necessary to enhance inclusivity and efficiency.
Yogish et al. (Thu,) studied this question.