Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 06 August 2025
In a significant step towards enhancing transparency and accessibility in the Public Distribution System (PDS), the Chief Secretary of Andaman and Nicobar Administration, Dr. Chandra Bhushan Kumar, IAS, officially launched SMART PDS 2.0 on August 5, 2025. This upgraded, citizen-centric digital platform replaces the existing ePDS system with a more robust and user-friendly interface.
Developed by the National Informatics Centre (NIC) Headquarters in collaboration with NIC, Sri Vijaya Puram, SMART PDS 2.0 aims to provide seamless online services to beneficiaries across the islands, eliminating the need for physical visits to government offices.
From now on, all ration card–related services will be accessible through the newly launched portal: https://an.smartpds.nic.in. Citizens can log in using the Aadhaar Number, Ration Card Number, or the Registered Mobile Number of the Head of Family, followed by OTP-based authentication for secure access.
Key Features of SMART PDS 2.0:
– Single online portal for all ration card services, ensuring convenience and ease of access.
– Time-saving and efficient, removing the need for long queues and manual paperwork.
– End-to-end digital services including adding/removing family members, updating details, surrendering cards, and downloading ration cards.
– Real-time tracking of ration distribution and entitlements.
– Paperless operations, removing the need for physical documents.
– Transparent grievance redressal, with options to register and track complaints online.
- Aadhaar-based biometric authentication, ensuring that only genuine beneficiaries receive subsidized food grains.
The launch of SMART PDS 2.0 is a transformative step aimed at empowering residents, especially those living in remote and rural parts of the Islands, by making PDS services more accessible, transparent, and equitable.
For any queries or assistance, citizens can contact the Toll-Free Helpline: 1800-343-3197 or email noitcsca@gmail.com.
The A&N Administration has reiterated its commitment to leveraging technology for efficient, transparent, and citizen-centric governance. (Story Based on PR)
