Kerala surpasses target, approves over 73,000 new priority ration cards

The Food and Civil Supplies Department in Kerala has achieved a record milestone under the state government's 100-day action programme by exceeding its initial target for issuing new priority ration cards.

Food and Civil Supplies Minister Anoop Jacob announced that the department has approved 73,024 applications for priority ration cards, surpassing the original goal of 50,000 cards. In total, 76,338 applications were received during the drive. Of these, 73,024 were approved, 1,353 were returned due to insufficient supporting documents, and 2,011 were rejected after scrutiny.

Mr. Jacob confirmed 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. Department officials have been directed to ensure its availability in all ration shops from August 1.

Additionally, the renewal of contracts with lorry operators engaged in doorstep ration delivery is under consideration. Mr. Jacob assured that pending dues to 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 stated 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 that they avoid taking leave during this period to ensure seamless service delivery.