Uttarakhand – The ration distribution system in the state is facing a major challenge as the government has admitted that 26 lakh beneficiaries have still not completed eKYC verification. Their ration supply from government fair price shops may stop if verification is not completed by the new deadline of December 15. Earlier, November 30 was the final date, but the huge pending count has forced another extension, raising questions over planning and execution within the department.
Officials claim that the verification process is meant to prevent fake identities and ensure that only genuine beneficiaries receive ration. But the inability to complete the process on time suggests serious administrative shortcomings. Extending the deadline repeatedly indicates that the system was not prepared to handle such a large workload, creating fear and uncertainty among poor families who rely on government ration for survival.
According to Revadhar Brijwasi, State President of the All India Fair Price Shop Dealers Federation, completing eKYC for such a large number of people in a short time is nearly impossible. Many cardholders are studying or working outside the state, while others include senior citizens, persons with disabilities, and even people who may have died but whose names still remain on ration cards. The lack of proper planning is expected to cause unnecessary hardship for genuine beneficiaries.
If any person is found ineligible during verification, action may be taken under the National Food Security Act, 2013, and the Essential Commodities Act. The government has stated that ration for disabled and elderly people will not be stopped due to eKYC delays. Food and Civil Supplies Minister Rekha Arya said that no eligible person will be deprived of ration, and the deadline can be extended again if needed. However, she added that if people still do not verify, it will be assumed that they do not require ration and their names will be removed from ration cards.
