Odisha PDS Update: Free Rice Halted for 15 Lakh Without e-KYC, Double Quota for Verified
Starting in November, the Odisha government will discontinue free rice distribution under both national and state food security schemes for over 15.67 lakh ration cardholders who have not completed their electronic Know Your Customer (e-KYC) verification.
This move aligns with a directive from the Union government mandating e-KYC for all Public Distribution System (PDS) beneficiaries.
Food Supplies and Consumer Welfare Minister Krushna Chandra Patra confirmed that while unverified cardholders received rice entitlements until October, only verified beneficiaries will continue receiving free rice from next month.
In a significant relief, verified cardholders will see their monthly rice quota doubled—from 5 kg to 10 kg per person.
The state government is preparing a proposal to Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi to approve the increased allocation, citing widespread complaints about inadequate rations.
Earlier this year, Odisha distributed an additional 5 kg of rice per person to 27 lakh families across 11 districts under the Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana, costing the state Rs 180 crore.
With a surplus stock of over 12 lakh tonnes of rice, Odisha has requested the Centre’s approval to reallocate or offload the excess.
Officials believe expanding distribution to verified beneficiaries will help manage the surplus while ensuring food security for genuine recipients.
