Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Friday admitted to difficulties in the proper implementation of direct benefit transfer (DBT) scheme, but stressed that the scheme could provide a robust screening system for the outcome of the money being spent by the government.

After chairing a DBT review meeting, Mr. Singh said that the DBT scheme exposed the government to some unprecedented difficulties and the tracking and monitoring of the funds meant for welfare remained largely poor.

He said that there was a long way for the government to go, but added the progress of the scheme had been heartening.

Speaking on the topic, he said, "We cannot afford to fail. We need to show that we can deliver results and benefits."

The DBT scheme was initially rolled out in a total of 20 districts on this January 1. By the first week of March, the government expanded the scheme to 43 districts.

During the second phase, which will start on July 1, the scheme will be extended to 78 more districts. Of those 78 districts, six will be from Uttar Pradesh, six from Himachal Pradesh, four each from Odisha, three from Bihar, two from West Bengal and four from Gujarat.

The government is also aiming to transfer LPG subsidy through DBT soon. To begin with, it will be available in one district. By mid of May, it will be expanded to another 20 districts.