Image Source : The Hans India
In a major welfare push, the Telangana government is set to distribute over 2 lakh new ration cards to eligible families, marking the first large-scale issuance in several years. The initiative, led by Chief Minister Revanth Reddy, aims to expand the Public Distribution System (PDS) and modernize access through Smart Ration Cards featuring digital enhancements.
Here’s a comprehensive look at the rollout and its broader implications.
Key Highlights of the Distribution Drive
• Over 2 lakh new ration cards will be issued in the first phase, with distribution beginning within the next fortnight
• The list of beneficiaries has been finalized after thorough verification of applications submitted via MeeSeva centers and the Praja Palana program
• Telangana currently has 2.93 crore PDS beneficiaries and over 90 lakh active ration cards
• Around 2.50 lakh new applications were received through Prajapalana, Gram Sabhas, Prajavani, and Meeseva
• An additional 8.10 lakh applications were submitted to add new family members to existing cards
Smart Ration Cards: A Digital Leap
• The new cards will feature barcodes and advanced digital features, designed to resemble ATM cards in size and format
• One side of the card will display photographs of CM Revanth Reddy and the Civil Supplies Minister, while the center will carry the Telangana government logo
• The Smart Ration Cards aim to simplify transactions, reduce fraud, and enhance transparency in the PDS
• Final design approval has been granted, and the cards are expected to be unveiled soon
Governance Reforms and Eligibility Oversight
• A cabinet sub-committee was formed to define eligibility criteria and streamline the issuance process
• All applications underwent strict scrutiny to ensure fairness and prevent duplication
• The cards will be issued in the name of the female head of the household, promoting gender-inclusive welfare delivery
Public Engagement and Welfare Integration
• The distribution is linked to the Praja Palana initiative, which also accepted applications for other welfare schemes like subsidized LPG, free electricity, and monthly stipends
• The launch event will be held in Thungathurthi constituency, with CM Revanth Reddy personally handing over cards to beneficiaries
• Post-launch, district-level distribution will be overseen by respective ministers and civil supplies officials
As Telangana prepares to roll out its Smart Ration Cards, the initiative reflects a blend of welfare expansion and digital governance—where access, dignity, and transparency converge to serve the state’s most vulnerable.
Sources: The Hans India, Telangana Tribune, Siasat.com
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