1.28 lakh fake, duplicate ration cards cancelled in J&K, 702 in Ladakh since 2013, says GoI

Nationwide initiative to eliminate ineligible beneficiaries through digitization, e-KYC

The Government of India has made significant strides in improving the efficiency and transparency of the Public Distribution System (PDS) by cancelling over 1,27,872 fake and duplicate ration cards in Jammu and Kashmir since 2013, while 702 ration cards have been cancelled in Ladakh. This move is part of a nationwide initiative aimed at eliminating ineligible beneficiaries through digitization, Aadhaar linking, and e-KYC verification.

In response to a query in the Rajya Sabha, the Ministry of State for Consumer Affairs, Food, and Public Distribution, Nimuben Jayantibhai Bambhaniya, revealed that 5.87 crore ration cards have been canceled across India between 2013 and 2024. Of these, 1,27,872 cards in Jammu and Kashmir have been cancelled to ensure food subsidies are directed to eligible beneficiaries, reducing leakages and ensuring efficient distribution of food grains.

State and UT-wise data

Among the states, Uttar Pradesh registered the highest number of cancellations, with 1,93,54,572 ration cards canceled, while Mizoram had the lowest number at 12,578. In the Union Territories, Delhi recorded the highest cancellations with 3,27,297, and Ladakh had the lowest with 702.

The Ministry also highlighted that under the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana (PMGKAY), 80.67 crore people are currently receiving free food grains. Jammu and Kashmir has contributed significantly to this success, with Aadhaar seeding of ration cards nearing completion.

Streamlining the distribution process

The government is also prioritizing the completion of e-KYC for PMGKAY beneficiaries to further streamline the distribution process. Nationwide, 65% of beneficiaries have already completed e-KYC, and states and UTs, including Jammu and Kashmir, are urged to expedite the process.

Combating malnutrition

To combat malnutrition and enhance food security, the government has introduced fortified rice under schemes like the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) and PM Poshan. Jammu and Kashmir have successfully implemented this initiative, ensuring that fortified rice reaches all districts under the Targeted Public Distribution System.

The cancellation of fake ration cards in Jammu and Kashmir marks a key milestone in ensuring that food security programs benefit only the rightful beneficiaries, reflecting the government’s commitment to accountability and efficiency. These reforms are expected to strengthen food security, enhance the transparency of welfare programs, and ensure that no eligible family is deprived of government support.

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