Direct cash transfer for PDS opposed

Finance minister Pranab Mukherjee's announcement about direct cash transfer of subsidies for kerosene and most likely for food under the Public Distribution System (PDS), has drawn flak from activists across Delhi.

Finance minister Pranab Mukherjee's announcement about direct cash transfer of subsidies for kerosene and most likely for food under the Public Distribution System (PDS), has drawn flak from activists across Delhi.

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The Capital has already witnessed opposition by activists and beneficiaries - under the Rozi Roti Adhikar Abhiyan (RRAA) - for the pilot project to dismantle the PDS and replace it with direct cash transfer wherein about 100 eligible families will be given Rs 1,000 per month instead of foodgrains.

"Though the FM did not directly mention cash for food, the government seems to be inclined towards it. We are totally opposed to any move by the government for direct cash transfer instead of foodgrains," said Anjali Bhardwaj, a prime campaigner at the RRAA.