No extension for eKYC verification by ration card holders after Feb 15; stern action against ineligible beneficiaries

With the deadline for completing the electronic Know Your Customer (E-KYC) process by ration card holders expiring on February 15, the Odisha government on Sunday made it clear that there would be no further extension.

While talking to reporters, Food Supplies & Consumer Welfare Department Minister, Krushna Chandra Patra informed that 37, 85, 496 beneficiaries under the government’s food security programmes are yet to complete electronic know your customer (eKYC) verification process.

Also Read: Over 8,000 government employees surrender ration cards in 2 days in Odisha

Urging such beneficiaries to complete their eKYC within the next few days, the Minister has made it clear that the government will not extend the deadline. Any incomplete eKYC applications will lead to the concerned ration cards being surrendered and cancelled after February 15, 2025.

Fraudulent Ration Card Usage

The Minister warned those who have fraudulently obtained ration cards, stating that around 8,00,000 cases have emerged where people belonging to taxable income groups have acquired ration cards to access government healthcare benefits. Reports of these instances are being addressed, with officials being instructed to scrutinise and verify authentic beneficiaries.

Applications for New Ration Cards

Approximately, 6,00,000 new applications for ration cards have been filed. Stringent action will be taken against those found ineligible, including the revocation of wrongly issued cards. The Minister has reassured that written complaints to the identification of ineligible beneficiaries will be thoroughly done and appropriate action will be taken.

Voluntary Surrender of Ineligible Cards

So far 12,000 individuals, who are either Income Taxpayers or those well employed, have voluntarily surrendered their ration cards, recognising their ineligibility for such benefits.