Bhubaneswar: In a major step toward ensuring food security for all eligible beneficiaries, the Odisha government will distribute six lakh new ration cards.
The decision was revealed by Food Supplies & Consumer Welfare Minister Krushna Chandra Patra on Monday.
The move follows the cancellation of ineligible and duplicate cards, creating a fresh opportunity for genuinely deserving beneficiaries.
Addressing the media, Minister Patra explained that the ration cards of individuals who are paying income tax or are employed in well-paying jobs have been revoked, as they no longer qualify for government-subsidised food under existing norms.
Furthermore, approximately five lakh ration cards belonging to deceased persons have been removed from the state database.
“This has created a pool of around six lakh ration cards, which will now be issued to newly identified, eligible citizens,” Patra stated.
He emphasized that the government is committed to ensuring that no poor or deserving family is left out of the Public Distribution System (PDS).
The minister acknowledged that, in some cases, ration cards had been mistakenly canceled, leading to hardships for genuine beneficiaries.
“If anyone’s ration card was canceled by mistake, they should not worry. We urge them to reapply through the official portal. After proper verification, they will be issued a new card,” he assured.
According to Patra, the department is currently receiving a large number of fresh applications on a daily basis. Field-level inquiries are being conducted to verify eligibility and prevent any misuse of the scheme. The minister also appealed to citizens to report any irregularities or grievances to the department.
“Timely action will be taken on all complaints to ensure transparency and fairness,” he added.
