The Odisha government has affirmed that there will be no extensions for the eKYC verification for ration card holders after February 15.
During a recent press conference, Minister of Food Supplies & Consumer Welfare, Krushna Chandra Patra, revealed that 37,85,496 beneficiaries under the state’s food security programs still have not completed their eKYC verification. He urged these beneficiaries to finish their eKYC within the next few days, emphasizing that the government will not prolong the deadline. Any incomplete eKYC applications will result in the cancellation and surrender of the associated ration cards after February 15, 2025.
Concerning fraudulent ration card usage, the Minister highlighted that around 8,00,000 cases have been identified where individuals from taxable income groups have wrongfully obtained ration cards to access government healthcare benefits. Measures are being taken to address these cases, with directives issued to officials for a thorough review and verification of legitimate beneficiaries.
Regarding new ration card applications, approximately 6,00,000 applications have been submitted. Strict actions will be enforced against those found ineligible, including the cancellation of incorrectly issued cards. The Minister assured that any written complaints about ineligible beneficiaries would be thoroughly investigated, leading to appropriate action.
So far, 12,000 individuals, including Income Taxpayers and those well-employed, have voluntarily surrendered their ration cards, acknowledging their ineligibility for these benefits.
