Odisha govt to distribute new ration cards soon
Bhubaneswar : After removing ineligible beneficiaries from food security schemes, the Odisha government is set to begin distributing new ration cards to eligible applicants across the state soon.
Food Supplies and Consumer Welfare Minister Krushna Chandra Patra today said that approximately 5.90 lakh new beneficiaries will soon receive their ration cards.
The Minister said that he has requested Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi to officially launch the distribution drive from Dhenkanal, following which it will be extended to other districts.
“In total, nearly 9.50 lakh people are expected to receive new ration cards soon. We urge those who are still left out to apply, as the application portal remains open,” said Patra.
He also noted that around 25 lakh beneficiaries have yet to complete their e-KYC, and urged them to do so to avoid disruptions in receiving benefits.
The Food Supplies and Consumer Welfare Department has instructed district collectors to begin issuing ration cards to newly eligible applicants and to include new members in existing ration cards. Collectors have been directed to complete card preparations by April 22.
As per the department’s latest directive, new and updated beneficiaries will receive coloured ration cards under the National Food Security Act (NFSA) and the State Food Security Scheme (SFSS).
The cards will be distributed in public functions by MPs, MLAs, and other dignitaries.
