Srinagar: The J&K Government has formed an eight member purchase committee for end to end computerization of Public Distribution System (PDS) in the state.
Headed by Administrative Secretary Consumer Affairs and Public Distribution Department (CAPD), the panel has been tasked to sign memorandum of understanding (MOU) with supplier with terms and conditions of supply and its successful installation of the systems.
The committee has been also tasked to purchase Hardware including Desktops, Laptops with Webcam along with accessories for proper functioning by observing all codal formalities required under rules.
It is also to see installation of Software Programmes of NIC and of general nature like Windows, MS office License, Antivirus, etc.
The panel shall have to ensure the successful running of the software installation in the system and training to the staff in the office where systems are installed for system and software.
With Administrative Secretary as chairman, the member of the panel include Director CAPD, Jammu and Kashmir, State Information Officer of National Informatics Centre (NIC), Financial Advisor/CAO CAPD (member secretary), Financial Advisor directorate of CAPD, Jammu as well as Kashmir, and representative of the Information Technology Department.
The computerization of PDS is aimed to help government keep a track on the movement of subsidized foodgrains.
Sources told GNS that the end-to-end automation and computerization of the complete PDS chain up to the shop level and availability of the information on a transparent portal in public domain will greatly improve the delivery on the ground and ensure the real beneficiary gets his due entitlement at fixed price, fixed quantity, and fixed time and of wholesome quality.
Recently a Parliamentary Panel that the computerization of Targeted Public Distribution System (TPDS) in state was going on at snails pace.
Not much progress has been made in this regard, the panel has said underlining that an amount of Rs 6.11 crore as Central Assistance was given to the State for computerization purpose but Utilization Certificates have not been furnished.
Slackness has been alleged not only on the part of Consumer Affairs and Public Distribution Department even the NIC and Information Technology Departments who are responsible for the computerization. (GNS)