Kerala approves over 73,000 new priority ration cards
The Food and Civil Supplies Department has achieved a record milestone under the State Government’s 100-day action programme by surpassing its initial target for issuing
The Food and Civil Supplies Department has achieved a record milestone under the State Government’s 100-day action programme by surpassing its initial target for issuing new priority ration cards. Food and Civil Supplies Minister Anoop Jacob said the department has approved 73,024 applications for priority ration cards, thereby exceeding the original target of issuing 50,000 cards. According to him, a total of 76,338 applications were received during the drive, out of which 73,024 applications were approved, while 1,353 applications were returned to applicants due to insufficient supporting documents.
Another 2,011 applications were rejected after scrutiny. Jacob announced that all newly approved priority ration card holders will begin receiving free rations from August 3. Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan will formally launch the distribution of the ration cards. The Minister added that 4,068 kilolitres of kerosene have been allocated. The department officials have been directed to ensure its availability in all ration shops from August 1.
Besides, the renewal of contracts with lorry operators engaged for doorstep ration delivery is under consideration. He assured that the pending dues to the transporters would be cleared without delay. A fresh tender process is expected to be initiated in September. In preparation for the upcoming Onam season, the Minister said that the supply of special rice for public distribution will reach ration shops before August 10.
He instructed officials to ensure the smooth and uninterrupted functioning of the public distribution system during the festive period and urged them to work with maximum efficiency. He also requested them to avoid taking leave during the period to ensure seamless service delivery.
The BriefWire