Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta announced the resumption of issuing over seven lakh new ration cards for the needy, ending a 13-year wait for almost eight lakh impoverished individuals. The application process restarted on May 15, with a focus on implementing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ‘Antyodaya’ vision to ensure genuine welfare distribution. Online applications for new ration cards and family member additions are now open via the e-District portal since May 15.
The Delhi government, under Chief Minister Gupta’s leadership, conducted a thorough audit of the public distribution system, revealing significant irregularities. Around 7,71,384 ineligible and fake beneficiaries were identified, leading to the removal of their names from the system. This action created approximately 7.72 lakh vacancies, allowing new eligible beneficiaries to obtain ration cards.
Chief Minister Gupta highlighted that there are currently 3,72,367 pending applications for new ration cards and 99,501 for family member inclusions. To adapt to changing circumstances, all applicants will have the chance to reapply under the latest eligibility criteria. The government has also modernized ration distribution by incorporating technology, such as replacing traditional weighing machines with electronic ones and making biometric verification mandatory.
All ration card services, including applications and modifications, have been shifted online to enhance transparency and efficiency. These reforms aim to ensure that food security benefits are directed only to deserving households, making the system more accountable and technology-driven.
