Bhubaneswar, Jul 15: Odisha’s Food Supply and Consumer Welfare Minister Krushna Chandra Patra announced that ration cards of over 20.58 lakh beneficiaries have been temporarily suspended due to non-completion of mandatory eKYC verification. The move comes as part of the government’s effort to streamline and digitize the Public Distribution System (PDS).

Minister Patra clarified that rice distribution has been halted for those who have not completed eKYC. However, if beneficiaries visit their local centres and complete the process, the government will resume their rice supply immediately.

The government has granted a grace period of three months for pending eKYC completion. During this time, the suspended ration cards will remain inactive. If eKYC is not completed within the stipulated period, the cards will be permanently cancelled. Beneficiaries can reapply and receive rice only after completing eKYC.

To address connectivity issues in remote districts, the government has installed network boosters and improved infrastructure. Beneficiaries facing technical challenges can visit district headquarters to complete their eKYC manually.

Minister Patra also confirmed that individuals who have successfully completed eKYC will continue receiving their entitled rice without disruption. Additionally, children above five years of age will now be included in ration card records to ensure comprehensive coverage.

This initiative aims to enhance transparency, eliminate duplication, and ensure that genuine beneficiaries receive their entitlements efficiently.

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