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SMART-PDS-2023-2026

SMART-PDS: Scheme for Modernization and Reform through Technology in Public Distribution System

SMART-PDS is a centrally sponsored, technology-oriented reform initiative by the Department of Food & Public Distribution (DFPD), Ministry of Consumer Affairs, aimed at enhancing and consolidating the IT infrastructure of India’s Public Distribution System (PDS). With a total budget of ₹349.9 crore, the three-year (April 2023–March 2026) approved program builds on previous computerisation attempts (End-to-End TPDS and the Integrated Management of PDS/IM-PDS) and introduces a modern, standardized national platform that unifies state and central operations throughout the PDS lifecycle.

Innovation

India–New Zealand: Agri -Tech Innovation

India–New Zealand Agri-Tech Innovation is emerging as more than a technical exchange; it is a contest over models of innovation and inclusion. At a time when agriculture faces the twin pressures of climate resilience and global market integration. The partnership can be transformational, but only if deliberate adaptation, rights-based data governance, and financing follow the technology. Without these, the result risks being one of two failures: techno-dumping (NZ solutions ill-fitted to India) or stalled scalability (India pilots remaining fragmented). 

Copy of Insights 13

Rethinking GST: Structural Reforms over Simplistic Slab Reductions

There is much talk of the proposed simplification of India’s complex GST regime. Prime minister Narendra Modi in his Independence Day speech, said, "…The government will implement next generation GST reforms which will bring down tax burden on the common man."

gst

GST Exemptions and NIL Rates: Policy Gains Versus Consumer Realities

Health insurance for individuals has been made exempt from Goods and Services Tax. GST has been removed from life insurance premium payments for individuals, as well. Both used to be charged GST at 18%. So, this represents major relief for individuals, this lowering of the cost of buying insurance by nearly a fifth, right?  That magnitude of reduction in the cost of either life or health insurance is merely an illusion. The cost of insurance might come down somewhat, but definitely not by 18%.

embracing the ties

Embracing Opportunity with Caution: India’s Strategic Engagement with America

India embraces its need for American intelligence and weapons to keep China at bay. At the same time, India does not want to be obliged to the US so much that it comes under its thumb. India is better off with a multipolar world, with multiple power centres.

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