The Government of India runs many schemes for the benefit of its citizens, especially by targeting various socio-economic groups including the economically weaker sections. One such initiative is the National Food Security Act, which provides rations to the poor at a subsidized rate. It is necessary to have a ration card to avail of these cheap rations. However, the government has recently introduced new guidelines for ration card holders. From November 1, 2024, the distribution of ration will be stopped if the new e-KYC (Electronic Know Your Customer) process is not completed. Here's why this change is happening:

Why is e-KYC necessary?

Under the National Food Security Act, all ration card holders must complete the e-KYC process. The Ministry of Food and Public Distribution had already announced this requirement. Despite this, many ration card holders have not yet completed their e-KYC. The last date for completing e-KYC is October 31, 2024. If a ration card holder does not complete the process by this date, his ration will be stopped from the next month. Also, the names of those who do not complete e-KYC will be removed from the ration card list and the cards will be canceled.

Why is e-KYC being implemented?

There are concerns about why the government is implementing e-KYC. The reason for this is that many ration cards still contain the names of individuals who are no longer eligible for benefits. This includes people who have died but their names have not been removed from the ration card. To fix this, all the individuals listed on the ration card of any family will have to undergo the e-KYC process. This can be done at the nearest Food Supply Department office.