Srinagar: The Department of Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs has enhanced inclusion measures under the Public Distribution System (PDS).
Interacting with the media here today, Satish Sharma, the Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, informed: “In accordance with the 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.”
The minister also said that in a bid to ensure no eligible citizen is left behind, the Department of FCS&CA has been directed to undertake 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),” the minister emphasised.
He further said that the initiative reaffirms the government’s commitment towards promoting inclusive access to food and essential supplies, especially among vulnerable sections of society.
