Revisiting Human Security through Public Distribution System: A Study of the Kalahandi District of Odisha

The concept of human security shifts the focus of development discourse from state-centric concerns to the protection and well-being of individuals, emphasizing dimensions such as food, health, and livelihood security. Within this framework, the Public Distribution System (PDS) plays a crucial role in addressing food insecurity and enhancing the quality of life among vulnerable populations. This study revisits the idea of human security through an empirical examination of the PDS in Kalahandi district of Odisha, a region historically associated with poverty, hunger, and socio-economic marginalization. The study analyzes the functioning, accessibility, and effectiveness of the PDS in ensuring food security among households in selected blocks of Kalahandi. Using a mixed-methods approach, it explores key aspects such as beneficiary identification, distribution efficiency, transparency mechanisms, and the role of local institutions in implementation. The findings indicate that while the PDS has significantly contributed to improving food availability and reducing extreme hunger, challenges such as irregular supply, quality concerns, exclusion errors, and administrative inefficiencies persist. By situating the PDS within the broader human security paradigm, the study argues that food security interventions must go beyond mere distribution to ensure dignity, equity, and social inclusion. It highlights the need for strengthening institutional accountability, enhancing community participation, and integrating technological innovations to minimize leakages and improve service delivery. The paper concludes that an effective and inclusive PDS can serve as a vital instrument for advancing human security in vulnerable regions like Kalahandi, thereby contributing to sustainable and equitable development.