Hyderabad: Telangana’s Civil Supplies Minister, N. Uttam Kumar Reddy, has announced that the state government will issue new ration cards to all eligible beneficiaries. This move is part of a broader effort to update and expand the state’s ration distribution system.

In a media briefing following a Cabinet Sub-Committee meeting on new ration cards, Reddy detailed the upcoming changes. The sub-committee, which includes Health Minister Damodar Raja Narasimha and Revenue Minister Ponguleti Srinivas Reddy, reviewed the issuance process and eligibility criteria.

Current criteria for the new ration cards include an annual income limit of Rs 1.5 lakh for rural areas and Rs 2 lakh for urban areas. Additional requirements involve land ownership limits, with less than 3.5 acres of dry land or 7.5 acres of wetland qualifying for rural residents.

Reddy also announced that the government would seek feedback from Members of Parliament, the Legislative Assembly, and the Legislative Council regarding these eligibility criteria. The Civil Supplies Department will be responsible for drafting and distributing these letters.

The state has a total of 89.96 lakh ration cards covering 281.70 lakh units. This includes 35.51 lakh state-issued cards and 54.45 lakh National Food Security Act (NFSA) cards. The new initiative aims to refine these criteria to ensure broader coverage and address any existing gaps.

The sub-committee will also consider recommendations from the Saxena Committee, which includes Dr. N.C. Saxena and Supreme Court Special Commissioner Harsh Mander, to ensure the scheme’s inclusivity and effectiveness.

Uttam Kumar Reddy’s announcement underscores the government’s commitment to updating its social welfare systems and ensuring that all eligible households receive the support they need.