Govt expands PDS coverage

The government on Tuesday announced enhanced inclusion measures under the Public Distribution System (PDS) to bolster food security in the region.

A spokesperson said the Department of Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, Government of Jammu and Kashmir, has enhanced inclusion measures under the PDS.

The information was given by Satish Sharma, the Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, during a media interaction.

“According to government order no. 47-JK(FCS&CA) of 2024, the new directive mandates the inclusion of children aged six years and above in family ration cards. These children will be incorporated into relevant categories such as Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY), Priority Household (PHH), Non-Priority Household (NPHH), or Exclusion, in accordance with existing guidelines," said the minister.

To ensure no eligible citizen is left behind, the Department of FCS&CA has been directed for undertaking identification and inclusion of previously omitted eligible beneficiaries into the PDS framework, adhering to established norms.

“A notable provision of the order addresses the inclusion of widows and divorcees who were not previously covered under the system. Upon notifying the department, such individuals will be eligible for issuance of separate ration cards based on their financial status and eligibility under the National Food Security Act (NFSA)," Sharma said.

The initiative underscores the government's commitment to promoting inclusive access to food and essential supplies, particularly for vulnerable segments of society.