Bhubaneswar, Feb 25: The Odisha government has announced a strict verification drive to identify ineligible ration card holders, including those who have filed income tax returns. The decision aims to ensure that only deserving beneficiaries receive subsidized food under the Public Distribution System (PDS).

Speaking to reporters in Bhubaneswar on Tuesday, Food Supplies & Consumer Welfare Minister Krushna Chandra Patra clarified that the verification process will involve physical inspections by officials through door-to-door surveys.

“We received complaints that some individuals who filed income tax returns had their ration cards canceled. I want to assure everyone that poor families will continue to receive benefits, but ineligible names will be removed. The process will be transparent and fair,” said Minister Patra.

He further stated that rural households with incomes exceeding Rs 10,000 per month and urban households earning more than Rs 15,000 per month may face ration card cancellations.

Officials have been assigned to carefully verify eligibility and ensure that genuine beneficiaries are not affected. The government remains committed to protecting the rights of the poor and eliminating misuse of the system.

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