Failure to Collect Rations Could Lead to Deactivation; Government to Suspend 5.5 Lakh Ration Cards

Action will be taken regarding over 5.62 lakh 'non-priority' ration cards in Kerala that have not been used to collect rations for six months. Ration distribution against these cards will be halted starting October 1, though they will not be permanently cancelled.

If you hold a ration card but haven't collected food grains from a ration shop in several months, this information is crucial for you. The Kerala government is reviewing ration cards that have remained unused for more than six months. Consequently, over 5.62 lakh cards will be temporarily frozen. However, this does not mean that all these cards will be permanently cancelled.

Action to be Taken on 5.62 Lakh Ration Cards

In Kerala, there are 5,62,494 non-priority ration cards that have not been used to collect rations for over six months. This figure includes approximately 4,40,811 'White' cards and 1,21,683 'Blue' cards. Ration distribution against these cards may be temporarily suspended starting October 1, 2026.

Can Ration Benefits Be Restored After e-KYC?

A frozen ration card does not imply permanent deactivation; you will have the opportunity to reactivate the card even after it has been frozen. To do so, all members listed on the card must complete the e-KYC process within three months. Additionally, the mobile numbers of all family members must be updated in the ration card records. Once the e-KYC process is completed, ration benefits can be restored.

Why Is the Government Reviewing Ration Cards?

The primary objective of this entire process is to streamline and update the records of the Public Distribution System (PDS). The government aims to identify ration cards that have remained unused for an extended period. Furthermore, the government also wants to ascertain whether an individual's name is listed on more than one ration card, or if duplicate cards and ineligible persons are availing the benefits of government rations.