Smart Card to replace BPL cards : Ahluwalia

Bangalore, Jul 31 : Union Planning Commission Deputy Chairman Montek Singh Ahluwalia today said that it has been proposed to introduce Smart Card system to replace the BPL cards.

Speaking at an Interactive Session on Inclusive Growth and Food Security here, he said there was also a proposal to link the Smart Cards with the Unique Identity cards to be issued in the country.

He said by using a Smart Card, holders can not only purchase Rice and Wheat given under BPL cards at present, but also other food products.

Dr Ahluwalia said the prices for food products may henceforth be based on procurement related prices.

Agreeing that all the poor were not getting the benefits of the BPL scheme, Dr Ahluwalia said that the Tendulkar Committee report would be implemented and it was the responsibility of the State Governments to identify the eligibles for BPL cards.

Expressing confidence that the inflation rate could come down to single digit by December 2010, Dr Ahluwalia said increase in the prices of food products was due to shortage in the global market.

''Rate of inflation has been increasing since last two years due to global repercusion,'' he added.

--UNI