Ration cards with photos mandatory for foodgrains

According to an estimate, about 20 lakh families possess bogus cards

The government is contemplating to resume distribution of ration to such card holders, only after conducting a drive to issue cards with photos.

The government has issued over 1.06 crore BPL cards, which include 11.99 lakh families under Anthyodaya Anna scheme. According to a rough estimate, about 20 lakh families possess bogus cards. In order to avoid bogus card holders from enjoying the benefit, the department decided to make cards with photographs compulsory to get food grains.

Special drive
The department of Food and Civil Supplies conducted special drive to take photos. So far, the drive covered 83 per cent card holders. However, the programme was delayed due to technical reasons. Now the department has decided to hold a special photography between September 15 and October 15.

Temporary cards
The government distributed over 28 lakh temporary BPL cards through Nemmadi centres. The government will issue fresh cards to those who obtained cards through Nemmadi centres in the special drive. Principal Secretary of Food and Civil Supplies Department M Madan Gopal said that the Department would ensure a fool-proof ration distribution system if BPL cards with photos are made compulsory.