Centre Asks States To Issue Ration Cards To Most Vulnerable, Poor People

The Centre has issued an advisory to all states and UTs to identify and issue ration cards to the most vulnerable and economically weaker sections of society to ensure their coverage under the National Food Security Act (NFSA).

The Centre has issued an advisory to all states and union territories to identify and issue ration cards to the most vulnerable and economically weaker sections of society to ensure their coverage under the National Food Security Act (NFSA). The Centre's directive comes amid various reports that the poorest of the poor are in dire need of foodgrains but they are unable to procure ration card. Addressing a virtual press conference, Food Secretary Sudhanshu Pandey said states and Union territories have scope to add coverage of 1.97 crore under the NFSA. As many as 14 states have completed 100 per cent coverage quota. In view of the COVID-19 pandemic, the food ministry said it is important to ensure coverage of all eligible identified persons from the most vulnerable and economically weakest sections of population under the NFSA.