Every human being in this world need basic needs i.e food, shelter and clothing to sustain and to live a normal life. In India there are people who are deprived of these basic needs. At times they have to depend on others for their daily bread. In this regard Public Distribution System (PDS) is expected to help large number of the population which is below poverty line to achieve food security. PDS is the largest distribution machinery in the world. It is said that PDS distributes commodities worth more than Rs.15,000 crores and about 16 crore families. It has close links with food security for the vulnerable segment of population. Public Distribution System is considered as a strong weapon in the hands of the Govt. for providing food and non food items to the poor and downtrodden. This study analyses why all BPL card holders are not making use of their cards when they get free rice, wheat and other commodities at subsidized price. If the ration card is not made use then the reasons behind it, opinions of both BPL cardholders who make use and do not make use of the BPL cards and ultimately some suggestions for effective use of BPL ration cards by all those who have it to alleviate poverty through Public Distribution System.

KEY WORDS: Food Security, Beneficiaries, Card holders, Public Distribution System