Ration Card E-KYC Deadline Approaching As Scams Rise

In a bid to increase the efficiency of the National Food Security Act, the Food, Public Distribution and Consumer Affairs Department has mandated a nationwide e-KYC process for all beneficiaries. Deputy Commissioner Sashi Ranjan flagged off an awareness chariot on March 25, 2025, to inform the public about this initiative. The department emphasizes that the deadline for completing the e-KYC is set for March 31, 2025. Failure to complete this requirement will result in the removal of names from ration cards.

This initiative is aimed at ensuring that eligible beneficiaries can access the benefits provided under various schemes related to the National Food Security Act, including the Jharkhand State Food Security Scheme, Chief Minister's Nutrition Scheme, and others. District Supply Officer Preeti Kisco reported that this awareness campaign involves five awareness chariots traveling through villages, distributing information via banners, posters, pamphlets, and announcements. The primary goal is to educate beneficiaries about the importance and process of completing their e-KYC before the deadline.

As the e-KYC process becomes mandatory, a critical point raised is whether this process involves any fees. Reports have emerged concerning rising scams, with cybercriminals targeting vulnerable individuals by offering online KYC services for a fee. Many people reported being approached by callers who falsely promise help, while ration dealers are charging between Rs. 10 to Rs. 50 for a service that the government has declared entirely free. The Food and Supply Department has made it clear that the e-KYC is a complimentary service and it must be completed at authorized government centers.

Multiple arrangements have been made for those needing assistance with the e-KYC process. Beneficiaries are encouraged to visit their nearest Jan Vitran Pranali shop where they can verify their identity through biometric scanning or OTP. They must provide documents such as their Aadhaar card, ration card, proof of residence, and a passport-sized photograph. Upon successful verification, their e-KYC will be completed efficiently and without charge.

The implications of not completing the e-KYC are significant. District Supply Officer Kunwar Devendra Singh strongly urged all ration cardholders to act promptly to avoid their ration cards being canceled. As per the instructions from the central government, compliance with e-KYC for all beneficiaries is mandatory. The awareness chariots are also set to visit the homes of elderly and disabled individuals to assist them directly with their e-KYC verification.

In addition to the e-KYC updates, the rules regarding ration cards and gas subsidies are also changing. Starting March 27, 2025, the government intends to digitalize all ration cards. This initiative aims to increase transparency and minimize instances of corruption in the distribution of rations. Beneficiaries will be able to access their rations from any part of the country as part of the 'One Nation, One Ration Card' scheme.

Furthermore, both e-KYC and biometric verification are set to become mandatory for identity authentication. These changes are critical to crack down on fraudulent ration card holders. With the comprehensive roll-out of these initiatives, the government expects to streamline the process of ration distribution while providing a secure and transparent experience for all eligible beneficiaries.

In conclusion, the deadline for ration card e-KYC is rapidly approaching, and all beneficiaries must ensure compliance to continue enjoying the benefits intended for their families. The Food, Public Distribution and Consumer Affairs Department stands ready to assist so that no one falls through the cracks in this process. All are advised to take heed of the guidelines provided and to be wary of scams, ensuring they carry out their e-KYC with authorized personnel only.