Kerala Fast-Tracks Food Security with 73,024 New Priority Ration Cards

Surpassing Expansion Targets

The Kerala Food and Civil Supplies Department has cleared 73,024 new priority ration cards, significantly outpacing its initial 50,000-card objective set for the state government’s 100-day action plan. Food and Civil Supplies Minister Anoop Jacob confirmed that of the 76,338 total applications filed during this window, 1,353 required further documentation, while 2,011 failed to meet the necessary criteria and faced rejection.

Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan will lead the formal launch of these cards. Beneficiaries approved during this drive can access free rations starting August 3. This administrative surge aims to broaden the social safety net before the high-demand Onam period.

Logistics and Fuel Allocation

In addition to food staples, the department has secured 4,068 kilolitres of kerosene for distribution. Officials received instructions to stock all shops with this fuel by August 1. Minister Jacob also addressed the logistics chain, noting that the government is evaluating contract renewals for transporters involved in doorstep delivery. While current dues for lorry operators will be settled shortly, a new tendering cycle is slated to begin in September.

Onam Readiness and System Efficiency

To prepare for the Onam festival, the department has set a firm deadline of August 10 for special rice supplies to reach all public distribution outlets. The Minister issued a directive for the system to maintain maximum efficiency, ordering staff to avoid taking leave to prevent service gaps. Key operational focuses include:

• Special Rice Delivery: Guaranteed arrival at local shops by August 10.
• Staff Availability: Restrictions on administrative leave to ensure uninterrupted service.
• Vendor Payments: Immediate processing of outstanding arrears for delivery contractors.

Source: The Hindu — News