Identification of the poor and the scale of operation are the most critical challenges of the proposed legislation on the right to food. This article suggests universal entitlement that excludes clearly identifi able rich. Food coupons could eliminate the need for the operations of public distribution system and eliminate diversion. Also cash transfers to the women of the household through Aadhaar cards could substantially reduce diversions and avoid the problem of distribution of food coupons.
The impact of the recommendations of the expert group on pricing of petrol, diesel, kerosene and LPG on the poor and on the price level should be no more than that of present policy and most likely smaller over time. The group has recommended freeing petrol and diesel prices and some increases in prices of kerosene and LPG.
