What are the options open to Vikas? How should he balance fiscal probity with empathy towards the designated beneficiaries?
Options Before Vikas and Balancing Approach:
Ethical Issues: Exclusion errors, dignity of the poor, discretionary abuse, fundamental right to food, technology-induced marginalisation.
Options:
- Strict biometric-only enforcement — plugs leakages but denies entitlement to genuine beneficiaries; violates NFSA and Article 21.
- Full discretion to distributors — humane but invites large-scale diversion.
- Multi-modal, safeguarded delivery (Recommended).
Balancing Fiscal Probity with Empathy:
- Layered authentication: Fingerprint → iris scan (for worn-out prints) → OTP-based Aadhaar authentication → face recognition. National-level ONORC and NFSA already permit multiple modes.
- Offline mode: Enable e-PoS devices to work offline in low-connectivity areas with post-facto sync — RBI–NIC model.
- Nominee/family authentication: Allow authorised family member's biometric for elderly and disabled.
- Exception register: Any manual override recorded with reason, photograph and beneficiary signature; independent monthly audit by Vigilance Committee under NFSA.
- Community oversight: Gram Sabha social audit; display beneficiary list at ration shop.
- Grievance redressal: Toll-free helpline and district-level appeal.
- Escalate to state: Recommend policy revision citing exclusion data.
Answered By:
Sarvesh Jha
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