Smart Cards, Big Impact: Telangana to Roll Out 2 Lakh New Ration Cards with Digital Upgrade

The Telangana government is set to issue over 2 lakh new ration cards in the coming fortnight, marking a major expansion of the state’s Public Distribution System (PDS). Chief Minister Revanth Reddy will personally oversee the distribution, which follows a rigorous verification of applications submitted via MeeSeva centers, Praja Palana, Gram Sabhas, and Prajavani.

 

This is the first large-scale issuance of new ration cards in several years, and it comes with a tech twist—Smart Ration Cards featuring barcodes, digital security features, and a sleek ATM-style design. The cards will display the CM’s and Civil Supplies Minister’s photos alongside the Telangana government logo, aiming to enhance transparency and reduce fraud.

 

Key Highlights:

 

2 lakh new ration cards to be distributed in Phase 1; total cards now exceed 90 lakh.

2.93 crore beneficiaries currently covered under the PDS.

8.1 lakh applications also received for adding new family members to existing cards.

Cards issued after strict eligibility checks by a cabinet sub-committee.

Smart cards to simplify transactions and improve service delivery.

Distribution events to be held at the constituency level, with participation from local MLAs and ministers.

 

This initiative not only expands food security coverage but also modernizes the delivery mechanism, reinforcing the government’s commitment to inclusive welfare.

 

Sources: Telangana Tribune, The Hans India, Samayam Telugu