Union Minister of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution Pralhad Joshi on Tuesday launched a slew of digital initiatives aimed at modernising warehousing operations, improving supply chain efficiency, and enhancing transparency across the Public Distribution System (PDS).
On this occasion, he highlighted the government’s continued efforts to drive digital transformation in the food and public distribution sector.
Mr Joshi said such initiatives support the government’s mission of reducing logistics costs and minimizing turnover time, a key national priority outlined by the Prime Minister. He noted that the PM Gati Shakti programme has synchronised different modes of transportation and laid the foundation for an integrated logistics ecosystem.
The minister added that it is the credibility of the leadership, policy stability, and policy continuity that inspires trust with the citizens. In alignment with this vision, digital platforms like Bhandaran 360 will further strengthen supply chain efficiency nationwide and technology would enhance transparency in service delivery.
Mr Joshi said improved coordination between stakeholders under the Department of Food and Public Distribution, supported by AI-enabled systems, will ensure that subsidised food grains reach the poorest households with greater accuracy, speed and dignity.
While emphasising the role of technology, he said the human touch should not be missed to drive effective and transparent service delivery to the poorest of the poor.
At the centre of this transformation is Central Warehousing Corporation’s new ERP platform, ‘Bhandaran 360’, built on SAP S/4HANA. Implemented ahead of schedule, the system integrates 41 modules covering HR, finance, marketing, warehouse management, contract management, project monitoring and other core functions. It is also linked with 35 external systems, including ICEGATE, port systems, FCI, NAFED, NCCF, and WDRA, enabling seamless digital connectivity across the food storage and movement ecosystem.