Panaji: March 11, 2026:Ponda, 11th March 2026: The new Ponda Taluka Civil Supplies Office at the Agri Bazar Complex was inaugurated at Ponda on Wednesday. On the occasion, compensation amounting to ₹3.17 crore under the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana (PMGKAY) was distributed to Fair Price Shop dealers. A workshop on technological upgradation in the Public Distribution System (PDS) was also held.
The event highlighted the important role of Fair Price Shop dealers in the Public Distribution System. They serve as the crucial last-mile link in delivering food grains and essential commodities to beneficiaries. Thousands of people depend on them for food security. The workshop focused on technological initiatives aimed at improving transparency, efficiency and accountability in the PDS.
Speaking on the occasion, Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant said that Fair Price Shop dealers are the real representatives of the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana, the CM Fair Price Shop initiative and other schemes of the Department of Civil Supplies. He said that many Fair Price Shops have been serving communities for generations and continue to play an important role in ensuring food security for the people. CM Dr. Sawant assured that the Government will continue to support the dealers and will work towards increasing their commission in the future. He reiterated that Fair Price Shops should remain sustainable while continuing to benefit the people.
Referring to efforts to modernise the Public Distribution System, CM said that several initiatives have been introduced to improve service delivery. These include doorstep delivery of food grains, Smart Ration Cards and the Vehicle Location Tracking System (VLTS). Integration of electronic weighing scales with AePOS devices has also been implemented. He also highlighted the Chief Minister’s Financial Assistance for Refilling of LPG Cylinder Scheme, 2023. At present, 6,247 out of 10,264 AAY ration card holders are availing the benefits. The Government of India and the Government of Goa remain committed to ensuring an uninterrupted supply of LPG cylinders despite global challenges.
The programme was attended by Chairperson of the Ponda Municipal Council Govind Gaude, former Member of Parliament Narendra Sawaikar, Secretary of Civil Supplies, Director of Civil Supplies, Zilla Panchayat Member Pritesh Gaonkar, Fair Price Shop dealers and other officials of the Department of Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs.
