Abstract: Public distribution system is a government-sponsored chain of shops entrusted with the work of distributing basic food and non-food commodities to the needy sections of the society at very cheap prices. Wheat, rice, kerosene, sugar, etc. are a few major commodities distributed by the public distribution system. Fair Price Shop does not open every day, nor do they keep regular hours. Even on the days that the Fair Price Shop is open, ration card holders have to stand in long queues. As social distancing was not followed at several fair price shops during the first phase of public distribution, the Civil Supplies Department has issued paper token to the beneficiaries, mentioning the date for them to avail food grains and relief fund. The proposed project aims to modernize the Public Distribution System (PDS) in India, specifically addressing challenges faced by Fair Price Shops. This not only saves time for beneficiaries but also aligns with social distancing measures crucial for public health .Additionally, the system allows for two re-slot allocations, providing flexibility for those who miss their initial collection slot. This not only streamlines the process but also allows individuals to view product details online, saving time and enhancing accessibility. By implementing a virtual queuing system through the Q Learning algorithm, the approach seeks to replace traditional physical queues with organized slot allocations. Ration cardholders would receive SMS notifications specifying the date and time for product collection, reducing the need for individuals to stand in long queues or frequent the Fair Price Shop every day. This not only saves time for beneficiaries but also aligns with social distancing measures crucial for public health .Additionally, the system allows for two re-slot allocations, providing flexibility for those who miss their initial collection slot. This not only streamlines the process but also allows individuals to view product details online, saving time and enhancing accessibility.
Keywords: Virtual Sign-up, Online Channels, Mobile Apps , QR Code , Traditional Channels , Virtual Waiting/Queues, Multi-channel Remote , Queuing Information Updates , Traditional Queue Management Components , Counter Plates, Digital Signage Screens.
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DOI:
10.17148/IJARCCE.2025.14570
