Buffer Stock and Public Distribution System

Front

What is Buffer Stock?

Back

Buffer Stock is the stock of foodgrains, namely wheat and rice procured by the government through the Food Corporation of India (FCI).

Front

How does the FCI procure wheat and rice?

Back

The FCI purchases wheat and rice from farmers in states where there is surplus production.

Front

What is the Minimum Support Price (MSP)?

Back

The MSP is a pre-announced price declared by the government every year before the sowing season to provide incentives to farmers for raising production.

Front

Why is Buffer Stock created by the government?

Back

Buffer Stock is created to distribute foodgrains in deficit areas and among poorer strata of society at a price lower than the market price, also known as Issue Price.

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How does Buffer Stock help during adverse conditions?

Back

It helps resolve the problem of shortage of food during adverse weather conditions or periods of calamity.

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What is the Public Distribution System (PDS)?

Back

The PDS is a system through which food procured by the FCI is distributed through government regulated ration shops among the poorer section of society.

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Where are ration shops located?

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Ration shops are present in most localities, villages, towns, and cities.

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How many ration shops are there in the country?

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There are about 5.5 lakh ration shops all over the country.

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What items do Fair Price Shops keep stock of?

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Fair Price Shops keep stock of foodgrains, sugar, and kerosene oil for cooking.

Front

Who can buy items from ration shops?

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Any family with a ration card can buy a stipulated amount of items from the nearby ration shop.