What is the significance of public distribution systems in rural development?
The public distribution system plays a significant role in rural development by ensuring the availability of essential commodities such as food grains, kerosene, and other household items to rural households at subsidized rates. This system helps in reducing poverty and maintaining a balanced diet for rural families. It also contributes to increased agricultural productivity by providing farmers with access to necessary inputs like fertilizers, seeds, and insecticides at reasonable prices through the system's retail shops or fair-price shops.