J&K has achieved 100% ration card digitization: Centre

By: Raja Syed Rather

Srinagar: Jammu and Kashmir has successfully completed 100% digitization of ration cards under the technology-driven Public Distribution System (PDS) reforms, the Centre informed LoK Sabha on Friday.

This achievement is part of a nationwide initiative to enhance transparency and reduce inefficiencies in the distribution of essential supplies.

According to the data shared by the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food, and Public Distribution, 99.8% of ration cards in Jammu and Kashmir have been linked with Aadhaar. This linkage plays a key role in eliminating duplicate records and ensuring that benefits are directed to genuine beneficiaries, reads the details as per the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO).

“The nationwide digitization initiative has led to the de-duplication of over 45.16 lakh ration cards, with Jammu and Kashmir making a significant contribution to this effort.”

Officials noted that the transition to a digital system not only reduces fraud but also streamlines the process for citizens to access their entitlements.

“No major challenges were reported in digitizing ration cards in rural or remote areas of the Union Territory. The government credited the success of this initiative to effective planning and collaboration with local authorities. Efforts are now focused on raising awareness about the benefits of digitization and encouraging beneficiaries to regularly update their details in the system.”—(KNO)