Govt Raises Income Cap For Ration Card Applications To Rs 1.2 Lakh

Policy Update  
The decision was taken at a recent Cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Rekha Gupta. Officials highlighted that over 3.8 lakh ration card applications had been pending due to outdated eligibility norms. By revising the cap, the government seeks to include thousands of families who were previously excluded despite genuine need.  

Eligibility And Verification  
Applicants must now provide an income certificate issued by the Revenue Department. Families owning property in premium colonies, paying income tax, or possessing four-wheelers (except commercial vehicles used for livelihood) will remain ineligible. The government has also removed duplicate and ineligible entries, creating over 8 lakh vacant slots for new beneficiaries.  

Key Highlights  

• Annual income cap raised from Rs 1 lakh to Rs 1.2 lakh  
• Over 11.65 lakh people expected to benefit from revised norms  
• Mandatory income certificate required from Revenue Department  
• Duplicate and ineligible entries removed, creating 8.27 lakh slots  
• Focus on transparency and equitable food security distribution  

Impact And Reflection  
The revision reflects the government’s intent to strengthen food security and ensure no eligible family is left out due to administrative gaps. By tightening verification and expanding coverage, Delhi aims to balance inclusivity with accountability, reinforcing food security as a right rather than charity.  

Sources: Indian Express, The Hindu, The Tribune