QR tags enhance grain tracking

The Centre is set to expand its QR code tagging initiative for foodgrain bags handled by the Food Corporation of India, aiming to improve traceability, reduce bag recycling and strengthen transparency in the Public Distribution System (PDS).

 Following successful pilot projects for rice in Andhra Pradesh during December 2025-January 2026 and wheat in Punjab during April-May 2026, the government will now roll out the programme across selected districts in Andhra Pradesh, Telangana and Odisha during the ongoing marketing season.

  The expanded initiative will cover around 20 lakh tonnes of rice transported from milling points to distribution centres. Andhra Pradesh will account for about 10 lakh tonnes, while Telangana and Odisha will contribute 5 lakh tonnes each.

According to a senior Food Ministry official, QR tags will be attached to foodgrain bags moved from procurement states to distribution states. 

  The system will help authorities monitor the movement of grains throughout the supply chain and prevent misuse or recycling of bags. Each QR code contains detailed information, including the procurement centre, the agency responsible for procurement and the season in which the grain was purchased. 

—PTI