At the bustling India-AI Impact Summit in New Delhi’s Bharat Mandapam, a collaborative exhibition by the Department of Food and Public Distribution (DFPD) and World Food Programme (WFP) stole the spotlight. Amid preparations for Expo 2026, the event focused on AI’s role in fortifying food security and making the Public Distribution System (PDS) more transparent and agile.
This longstanding partnership, active for more than 20 years, is embracing AI to supercharge food distribution efficiency. The exhibit demonstrated practical applications that promise to overhaul how essential supplies reach vulnerable populations.
In an interview, DFPD Secretary Sanjeev Chopra challenged conventional views. ‘Food distribution was never considered a domain for AI. But we’re achieving more than transparency—we’re building responsiveness. These integrations are optimizing operations and enhancing beneficiary services,’ he said, thrilled by the showcased breakthroughs.
The summit’s scale impressed UN Resident Coordinator Stephen Pszenny. ‘This well-orchestrated event beautifully presents innovations. The DFPD-WFP collaboration on food distribution advancements fills me with pride,’ he shared.
Echoing this, WFP India Country Director Elizabeth Forbes celebrated the duo’s enduring bond. ‘Our 20-plus years of partnership are evident in these life-changing AI solutions, crucial for strengthening food security,’ she stated.
Part of a larger initiative on responsible AI, the summit highlights India’s vision for technology-driven inclusive development and sustainability. This food security-focused exhibit marks a pivotal step in positioning India as the world’s AI innovation epicenter, with tangible benefits for the common man.