TCB digitalisation to boost transparency in subsidised goods distribution

The Trading Corporation of Bangladesh (TCB) has undertaken a comprehensive digital transformation initiative to make the distribution of subsidised essential commodities easier, more transparent and accountable.

The initiatives include digital TCB cards, the 'Upokari' mobile app, online dealer management, an all-in-one point-of-sale (POS) system and artificial intelligence (AI)-based real-time monitoring of product distribution and management.

The initiatives were unveiled at the inauguration ceremony of TCB's digital transformation programme at the TCB conference room today, said a press release.

Commerce, Industries and Textiles and Jute Minister Khandakar Abdul Muktadir attended the programme as the chief guest, while Chairman of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on the Ministry of Commerce Engineer Khaled Hossain Mahbub Shyamol and Commerce Secretary Md Ataur Rahman Khan were present as special guests.

The commerce minister said the country's supply management system has yet to become fully seamless and efficient.

He said significant price gaps often emerge after products move from producers to urban or capital-city retail markets, while temporary supply shortages can also create instability in the market.

"In this situation, the role of TCB is very important in ensuring essential commodities at subsidised prices for low-income people," he said.

The minister said the use of technology would enhance transparency in TCB's services and help ensure that government subsidies reach genuine beneficiaries.

Under the new 'Upokari' mobile app, beneficiaries will be able to receive TCB services through a secure digital system alongside the existing card-based system.

The identity and eligibility of beneficiaries will be verified through digitally signed and encrypted QR codes.

As a result, genuine beneficiaries will not be deprived of designated commodities even if their physical cards are lost or damaged.

The online dealer management system is intended to make the application, data storage and appointment processes more transparent and systematic.

If the number of applicants exceeds the requirement, dealers may be selected through a digital lottery. An online payment collection system will also be introduced to make financial transactions easier and more transparent.

The all-in-one POS system will facilitate product sales, biometric verification, online payments and instant issuance of sales receipts.

At the same time, an AI-based real-time monitoring system will enable authorities to instantly track the volume of products sold and distributed in different areas and identify possible irregularities.

The system is expected to help detect irregularities and facilitate quick decision-making.

An AI-based contact centre is also being introduced to provide beneficiaries with information and assistance promptly.

The programme was also informed that around 5.9 million ineligible applicants have been removed from the list after verification of their national identity cards, mobile numbers and other information.

A verified digital database has been created through the process, which is expected to play an important role in ensuring that government subsidies reach genuine and eligible beneficiaries.

At present, around 7.9 million beneficiaries are covered by TCB services. The government aims to increase the number to 10 million in the future, the minister said.

The commerce minister said TCB's various initiatives and digital transformation are expected to help save around Tk300-350 crore in subsidies in the current fiscal year compared with the previous year.

He said the government aims to significantly reduce wastage of subsidies over the next four to five years through greater use of technology, accurate beneficiary selection and effective management.

"Technology will be for the people, and services will be easy, transparent and dignified," he said.

TCB Chairman Brigadier General Mohammad Faisal Azad presided over the programme and delivered the welcome address.

Senior officials of the Commerce Ministry and TCB, representatives of relevant organisations, media personnel and invited guests attended the programme.

Later, the commerce minister formally inaugurated TCB's digital activities along with the guests.